State Health Dept. Announces Universal Childhood Lead Testing

Illinois is expanding childhood lead screening statewide. The Illinois Department of Public Health says universal blood lead testing will take effect July first, 2026. Under the new requirement, all children in Illinois will be automatically tested at 12 months and again at 24 months. Previously, state-led testing rules focused mainly on children living in high-risk ZIP codes. Health officials say the change is designed to catch lead exposure earlier, regardless of where a child lives. Lead can harm brain development and learning, especially in young children. Families should talk with their pediatrician or local health department about testing and prevention steps.