42 USC 247b-11 - Effects of folic acid in prevention of birth defects

U.S Code last checked for updates: May 06, 2024

§ 247b–11.

Effects of folic acid in prevention of birth defects

(a)

In general

The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shall expand and intensify programs (directly or through grants or contracts) for the following purposes:

(1)

To provide education and training for health professionals and the general public for purposes of explaining the effects of folic acid in preventing birth defects and for purposes of encouraging each woman of reproductive capacity (whether or not planning a pregnancy) to consume on a daily basis a dietary supplement that provides an appropriate level of folic acid.

(2)

To conduct research with respect to such education and training, including identifying effective strategies for increasing the rate of consumption of folic acid by women of reproductive capacity.

(3)

To conduct research to increase the understanding of the effects of folic acid in preventing birth defects, including understanding with respect to cleft lip, cleft palate, and heart defects.

(4)

To provide for appropriate epidemiological activities regarding folic acid and birth defects, including epidemiological activities regarding neural tube defects.

(b)

Consultations with States and private entities

(c)

Technical assistance

(d)

Evaluations

(e)

Authorization of appropriations

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 317J, as added Pub. L. 106–310, div. A, title VI, § 601, Oct. 17, 2000, 114 Stat. 1118.)

cite as: 42 USC 247b-11