What states drug test newborns?

According to Dailard and Nash, drug testing in newborns is one way of ensuring babies are born healthy. However, the requirement is not properly anchored in law, and has been successfully contested in the courts of most states. States that pursue the policy instead rely on laws that relate to child abuse and neglect. read more

Newborn hair develops during the last trimester, permitting detection of drug exposure up to as much as 3 to 4 months. However, using hair as a specimen has drawbacks, too. For example, studies have shown that hair color affects drug test results, with black hair accumulating more drug, according to McMillin. read more

Testing is required if drug use during pregnancy is suspected. Most states do not have a law that requires hospitals to test infants and new moms for controlled substances. In Minnesota and North Dakota, a test is required if there are drug-related complications at birth. read more

Newborn Testing: Types of Tests for Newborns. Now that you have had your baby, there is still one more thing to do before your baby heads home. Depending on what state you live in, there are a number of different screening tests that your baby will receive. read more