HB 4762 protects disabled patients, helps save lives
Legislation approved in the Michigan House of Representatives today will help ensure equity within the organ transplant system in the state.
House Bill 4762, sponsored by State Rep. Bronna Kahle (R-Adrian), protects possible organ transplant recipients from discrimination based on physical or mental disability.
“Gift of Life Michigan applauds the Michigan legislature for passing HB 4762. We encourage the governor to sign this important legislation into law,” said Dorrie Dils, President and CEO of Gift of Life Michigan. “An organ is a precious gift and should not be denied to someone with a disability who would benefit from a successful transplantation.”
Specifically, the bill prohibits a person that performs organ transplants in Michigan from refusing to transplant an organ to a patient based solely on the individual’s disability, refusing to evaluate the patient for an organ transplant or refuse to place the patient on the transplant waiting list. It also allows a patient who believes a health care provider has violated the law to seek injunctive relief.
A senate substitute bill (S-5) has been approved by the Michigan Senate. The law now goes to the governor’s desk for her signature.
