In recent years, sickle cell screening programs have been initiated by community groups, health centers, hospitals, medical schools, health departments, school systems, city and State governments, various branches of the Federal Government, fraternal and social clubs, and other organizations. Problems have resulted from mass sickle cell screening, and to date, the results of the concerted efforts of many groups have been more harmful than beneficial. City and State governments have passed questionable mandatory sickle cell laws. This paper includes a discussion of the legislation passed by three such states; Massachusetts, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. These states have passed mandatory sickle cell screening laws involving one or all of the following groups: preschool and school children; potential marriage partners; and inmates of correctional and mental institutions. It is urged that these mandatory sickle cell screening laws be repealed. If sickle cell screening programs are to be made available, they should be available on a voluntary basis in accordance with guidelines already established by the Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Sickle cell screening programs should be organized so as to offer strong educational programs, primary sickle cell screening which will allow the ascertainment of the hemoglobin genotype and confidential expert and humane genetics counseling. The misinformation which has already been fostered by large sickle cell screening programs and pressure groups already has resulted in psychological and social damage in the black community. (Author/AM)