New lead poisoning testing requirements in MD

The Hogan administration announced Monday that testing for lead poisoning will now be required for all children ages one and two in Maryland.

The announcement follows department of health recommendations that all jurisdictions in Maryland be tested for poisoning.

Prior to this only children on Medicaid or from at risk areas for lead poisoning were required to be tested.

Researchers say if you live in a home built prior to 1978, your children may be at risk.

Officials say the reason one and two-year-olds need to be tested is because at that age they frequently put their hands in their mouth, increasing the risk of lead entering their system.

Under the new regulations, healthcare providers will have to make sure children are tested appropriately and parents will need to show proof of the testing when their child enters public school or daycare.