Michigan House Bill HB5394

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/24
• Refer: 1/16/24
• Report Pass: 5/15/24
• Engrossed: 9/25/24
• Refer: 10/2/24
• Report Pass: 12/20/24

Caption

Health: anatomical gifts; inclusion on the donor registry of an individual who elects to be a donor on an income tax schedule; allow. Amends sec. 10120 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.10120).

Impact

The enactment of HB 5394 is expected to significantly improve the transparency and efficiency of the organ donation process in Michigan. By requiring the secretary of state to maintain a comprehensive donor registry and to systematically inquire about a person's interest in organ donation through the issuance of identification cards and licenses, the bill is likely to increase participation rates in organ donation programs. With electronic access to this registry for organ procurement organizations, the bill aims to make it easier for healthcare providers to determine a person's status as an anatomical donor, especially in critical situations.

Summary

House Bill 5394 aims to amend Michigan's Public Health Code, specifically section 10120, to enhance the establishment and management of an anatomical donor registry. This bill allows the state's organ procurement organization to create or contract a donor registry, ensuring that it is accessible for verifying anatomical gifts made by individuals. By integrating this system with the secretary of state's licensing processes, the bill seeks to streamline the process of registering individuals wishing to donate their organs upon death, thereby facilitating potential organ donations and optimizing organ procurement operations.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 5394 appears to be positive, particularly among medical professionals, health advocates, and organizations involved in organ donation. Supporters argue that this bill promotes life-saving practices by simplifying the process of organ donation and potentially increasing the availability of organs for transplantation. However, there may be concerns regarding privacy and the handling of personally identifiable information, as established protocols in the bill are necessary to safeguard such data from misuse, which some opponents might still question.

Contention

While the bill is largely well-received, notable points of contention stem from privacy issues related to the handling of personal information within the donor registry. Critics could raise concerns that enhancing access to donor information—particularly regarding the conditions under which this information would be shared with organ procurement organizations—might infringe on individuals’ privacy rights. Ensuring that the donor information is utilized solely for its intended purpose—assessing anatomical gifts—is vital to addressing these concerns.