Objection to Newborn Screening (Religious)

All babies born in Utah are required by law (Newborn Screening Statute 26-10-1) to receive Newborn Screening for “…….diseases which may result in mental retardation or brain damage…”  Two screens are required:  1) one drawn between 48 hours and 5 days of age and 2) one drawn between 7 and 28 days of age.

Exception:  “Except in the case where parents object on the grounds that they are members of a specified, well-recognized religious organization whose teachings are contrary to the tests required by this section, each newborn infant shall be tested …..”

If this applies, the form OBJECTION TO NEWBORN SCREENING (RELIGIOUS) or a similar form containing the same information, which has been developed by your birth institution, needs to be completed and sent to:  Newborn Screening Program, PO Box 144710, Salt Lake City UT  84114-4710.