Blood lead level testing required for all students

A lead testing bill was passed April 20 that requires testing of children attending public and parochial schools.

LB204, introduced by Omaha Sen. Brenda Council, requires blood lead level testing of children prior to kindergarten enrollment. School districts are required to inform families prior to the date of school registration of the testing requirement.

Under the bill, blood-lead testing will not be required if a student submits:
• a physician’s statement that assesses a child to be considered at low-risk for elevated blood lead levels based on information provided by their parent or guardian;
• a physician’s statement that blood lead testing would be injurious to their health; or
• an affidavit stating the blood lead testing conflicts with their religious beliefs.

Students who have not met the testing requirements may be provisionally enrolled if they have a test scheduled.

The bill was passed on a 30-12 vote.