Stop CMV Act of 2025
Summary
The Stop CMV Act of 2025 aims to amend the Public Health Service Act, mandating congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) screening for newborns. It directs hospitals and healthcare entities to administer CMV tests to infants under 21 days old. The bill also outlines processes for states to prescribe testing standards and procedures, with federal oversight through the Discretionary Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would lead to increased screening for congenital CMV in newborns across the United States. This could result in earlier detection and intervention for affected infants. The Act also establishes grant programs to support states in implementing these screening programs and conducting related research.
Potential Benefits
- Early detection of congenital CMV, potentially leading to timely intervention and improved health outcomes for affected infants.
- Increased awareness and education among healthcare providers and the public regarding CMV.
- Development of improved data collection systems related to congenital CMV.
- Support for research and development of new screening techniques, diagnostics, prevention, and treatments for CMV.
- Potential reduction in the long-term healthcare costs associated with managing complications from undetected congenital CMV.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential financial burden on hospitals and healthcare entities to implement the screening programs.
- Possible increase in anxiety for parents due to false-positive results or uncertainty surrounding the diagnosis.
- Potential strain on state health agencies to develop and implement the required standards and procedures.
- Risk of over-medicalization or unnecessary interventions based on screening results.
- The Act relies on appropriations, and if funding is insufficient, the effectiveness of the screening programs may be compromised.
Constitutional Alignment
The Stop CMV Act of 2025 appears to align with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare," as stated in the Preamble. The Act falls under the purview of Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) by influencing healthcare practices and resource allocation across state lines. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but the Act provides grants and guidance rather than direct mandates, respecting state autonomy in implementation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).