More stringent standards for public health intervention based on blood lead levels in children are among the new public health laws and rules that took effect this month. [Health News Illinois] 

A new regulation requires children residing in a high-risk ZIP code to be automatically tested at 12, 24 and 36 months. Children younger than 6 years old must be assessed for lead exposure through a pediatrician-administered questionnaire.

Blood tests that come back with lead levels exceeding 3.5 micrograms per deciliter will require a public health intervention that includes a home inspection to determine the source of the lead contamination. 

A public health nurse will also visit and educate the family on ways to protect children from the harmful effects of lead.

“We appreciate the leadership of Gov. JB Pritzker, the Illinois General Assembly and the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules in advancing solutions that protect our residents and make our Illinois communities healthier,” Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said in a statement.

The provision was one of several highlighted by the agency. Other laws taking effect this month will:

-Require nursing homes that undergo ownership changes to develop a plan of care for residents.

-Add clinics and other healthcare providers affiliated with hospitals to reporting requirements for cases of patient abuse by staff. 

-Require assisted living facilities to submit plans for construction or renovations for approval by the Department of Public Health.

-Prohibit the advertisement or promotion of electronic cigarettes that are designed to look like another, non-smoking product.

-Expand programs that distribute free fentanyl test strips to help individuals detect the presence of opioids.

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