I have not had a chance to read what Sen Dodd is proposing, and I would not advise anyone to blindly support something, but when it comes to newborn screening I am 100% in favor of national screening.  They do it in other countries.  I don’t see this as the government "snooping" in our lives or having any kind of control.  I see it it as a way to prevent such tragedies as babies not being diagnosed because they live on the wrong side of a state line.  Unfortunately too many people are unaware (as I was before I had Kristin) of the genetic disorders that can occur and their impact.  We were very fortunate that Kristin is not a "salt-waster" in the true sense and that she never suffered a crisis or injury before she was diagnosed.  If not for good fortune, she could have become very sick or worse, died.  That is why I supported the newborn screening in the state of Virginia and even appeared at the General Assembly to lobby for it.  I urge everyone to read and consider the proposal and either support it - or offer suggestions for  improvement.    Just remember that we are lucky to have children who were diagnosed.  Write to your own senators and representatives and urge their support when the time comes.  Offer to meet or talk with them - you have the first hand experience.  Thanks, Roberta, for your posting :-)