WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The March of Dimes released today the following statement from President Dr. Jennifer L. Howse as President Barack Obama signed into law H.R. 1281, the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act:

“The President’s signature into law of the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act represents an important step toward maintaining and improving the federal programs that support the state-based newborn screening enterprise.  As a result, parents will be guaranteed the peace of mind that their newborns will be screened for dozens of disorders that could threaten their lives or health.  If one of those rare disorders is detected, infants will be able to receive the treatment that will enable them to lead healthy, productive lives.

“The March of Dimes is deeply grateful to our Congressional champions for their steadfast commitment to passage of this law:  Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC), Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Representative Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA) and Representative Mike Simpson (D-ID).  Their tireless advocacy for the health of newborns made this new law possible.  We also appreciate the significant effort dedicated by the chairs, ranking members, and staff of both the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions and the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

“Ultimately, passage of this bill demonstrates that issues of maternal and child health can unite policymakers across boundaries of party, geography, and political viewpoint.  It involved over two years of education, advocacy, and negotiation, navigating significant obstacles along the way.  It’s our hope that the ultimate success of bills like this one can help set the stage in Congress for greater bipartisan cooperation and a return to regular order in pursuing our shared goal of improving the health and lives of the American people.”

About March of Dimes
The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose volunteers and staff work to improve the health of infants and children by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education and advocacy. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.  Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.