New Jersey Assembly Bill A3193

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Provides for opting out of organ and tissue donation.

Impact

The bill specifically impacts the motor vehicle laws regarding the designation of organ donors and aligns with the Revised Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. The expected outcome is a significant increase in the donor pool, as people will automatically be considered donors unless they explicitly refuse. The regulations provided will affect individuals 18 years and older and will not apply to minors. Furthermore, the bill integrates these designations into the Donate Life NJ Registry, enhancing the tracking and management of organ donors.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3193 aims to revise the current organ donation system in New Jersey from an 'opt-in' to an 'opt-out' model. Under the proposed legislation, every new motor vehicle license or identification card issued will default to a designation of organ donor unless the individual actively opts out. This change is intended to increase the number of registered organ donors and facilitate organ and tissue donations for transplantation and therapy purposes.

Contention

While the goal of AB A3193 is to boost organ donation rates, notable contentions arise regarding ethical implications and individual rights. Opponents may argue that the opt-out system infringes on personal choice and could lead to individuals feeling pressured not to refuse. The bill also requires a review of organ donation information for those opting out, raising concerns about whether this could create unintended consequences for public trust in the organ donation process.