Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding in Chapter 2 of Title 32.1 an article numbered 21, consisting of a section numbered 32.1-73.21, as follows:

§32.1-73.21. Adult wellness screening for sickle cell disease or the sickle cell trait.

In order to prevent disability or death, every adult resident of the Commonwealth may be offered screening tests for sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait, with an emphasis on individuals of reproductive age and individuals who are unaware of their sickle cell trait status.

The health care professional in charge of the adult's annual health examination may cause such tests to be performed, and if performed, shall provide education and appropriate counseling regarding the test results.

The program for screening adults for sickle cell disease or the sickle cell trait may be conducted in addition to the programs provided for in Article 8 (§32.1-68 et seq.).