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Bill

Bill

SB 607

Health: screening; newborn hearing screening for congenital cytomegalovirus; require. Amends sec. 5431 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.5431) & adds sec. 5433.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jeremy Moss

Michigan bill requiring newborn screening for congenital cytomegalovirus, the leading infectious cause of congenital hearing loss, to improve early detection and intervention outcomes.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH POLICY
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Bill Summary · SB 607

Legislative bill overview

SB 607 would require Michigan to add congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) screening to the state's newborn hearing screening program. The bill amends existing public health code sections to establish this new screening requirement for all newborns in the state.

Why is this important

Congenital CMV is a common congenital infection that can cause permanent hearing loss, vision problems, and developmental delays in newborns. Early detection through screening allows for early intervention and treatment, which can significantly improve health outcomes. Currently, Michigan does not mandate CMV screening despite it being the leading infectious cause of congenital hearing loss.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Adding CMV screening to existing newborn screening programs requires laboratory resources, training, and equipment that may strain state budgets or increase costs passed to healthcare providers and families
  • Test follow-up protocols: The bill does not specify what diagnostic confirmation procedures or treatment protocols should follow a positive CMV screen, potentially creating gaps in care coordination
  • Scope creep concerns: Some may argue this expands government-mandated screening requirements and question whether other preventable conditions should be included, raising fairness and prioritization questions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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