SB39 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

George M. “Marc” Keahey

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Congenital heart defects, newborns, pulse oximetry screening required, State Board of Health to administer

Summary

SB39 would require Alabama's State Board of Health to set rules so that all newborns in licensed facilities are screened for congenital heart defects using pulse oximetry, at least 24 hours after birth.

What This Bill Does

The State Board of Health must adopt rules to ensure every newborn born in a licensed health care facility is screened for congenital heart defects. Each licensed health care facility must perform a pulse oximetry screening on every newborn at least 24 hours after birth and follow the board's rules. The bill includes definitions of key terms and becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Newborns born in licensed health care facilities in Alabama will be screened for congenital heart defects using pulse oximetry after at least 24 hours.
• Licensed health care facilities (hospitals and related institutions) must perform the screening and follow the board's rules.

Key Provisions

• The State Board of Health must adopt rules requiring pulse oximetry screening for all newborns born in licensed health care facilities.
• A health care facility must perform a pulse oximetry screening on every newborn at least 24 hours after birth.
• Definitions are provided for the Board, CHD, and health care facility.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Health