Missouri House Bill HB2624

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24
• Refer: 2/15/24

Caption

Establishes the "End Organ Harvesting Act of 2024"

Impact

If enacted, HB2624 would enhance Missouri's stance against forced organ harvesting by setting specific criteria under which health insurance coverage for organ transplants would be denied. The act empowers the Director of Health and Senior Services to designate countries engaged in these practices and to inform health care entities of any changes. This regulatory change could potentially influence insurance companies' policies and practices regarding coverage for transplants performed outside the U.S., aligning them more with ethical health care standards.

Summary

House Bill 2624, known as the 'End Organ Harvesting Act of 2024', is a legislative proposal aimed at amending Missouri's insurance regulations regarding organ transplants. The bill primarily focuses on prohibiting health carriers and health benefit plans from covering human organ transplants or related post-transplant care if the procedures are performed in countries known for participating in forced organ harvesting, such as the People's Republic of China. This legislation reflects growing concerns about ethical practices in organ procurement and aims to ensure that health care plans do not inadvertently support unethical transplant practices abroad.

Contention

The bill may become contentious, as it raises questions about the implications for individuals seeking medical treatment abroad. Critics might argue that it could limit access to potentially life-saving organ transplants for patients who have no alternatives within the U.S. They may also express concern about whether this bill may discriminate against patients based on geographical choices for medical treatment or lead to broader healthcare access issues. Proponents, however, would highlight the importance of addressing international human rights concerns and protecting patients from unethical practices.