Haley to ceremoniously sign newborn testing law

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Gov. Nikki Haley will ceremoniously sign a law requiring hospitals in South Carolina to test newborns for congenital heart defects.

Haley’s ceremonial signature is scheduled Wednesday in Seneca.

The law approved by the Legislature in June is named for Emerson Rose Smith, who died in 2011 at 2 ½ months old. Her parents, Susan and Jason Smith of Clemson, say their faith is helping them turn a devastating loss into a lifesaver.

The Smiths have committed to providing all 43 birthing hospitals in South Carolina with the devices needed to comply with the law.

Their foundation has spent $16,500 on 36 devices that detect heart malformations by measuring blood oxygen levels. They’ve also given more than $23,000 to support families.