Consensual Donation and Research Integrity Act of 2023
Impact
Under this proposed legislation, entities that acquire and sell human bodies or body parts for profit in interstate commerce will be required to register with the Secretary of Health. These entities must comply with specific requirements, including record-keeping protocols and inspection rights for the Secretary. Furthermore, it ensures that proper procedures are in place for the disposition of human bodies or parts according to federal and state laws. The intent is to ensure that all transactions are carried out ethically and transparently while safeguarding the dignity of the deceased.
Summary
SB2191, titled the 'Consensual Donation and Research Integrity Act of 2023', seeks to amend the Public Health Service Act to regulate the donation and handling of human bodies and body parts specifically for educational and research purposes. The bill emphasizes the importance of consensual donation and respectful treatment of donated bodies, ensuring that they are not utilized for transplantation. This act is a response to concerns over ethical practices in handling human remains and aims to establish clear guidelines for registration and oversight of entities involved in this process.
Contention
The bill has sparked discussions around the implications for public health and ethical standards. Proponents argue that it will safeguard the integrity of medical research and education by imposing strict regulatory measures on the handling of human remains. However, concerns have been raised regarding the feasibility of registration and the potential burden on funeral service providers and educational institutions. Critics fear that overly stringent requirements may impede educational efforts and complicate the process for legitimate research institutions while also raising questions about costs associated with compliance and oversight.
Education Savings Accounts for Military Families Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Education (ED) to establish a program to provide children with parents on active duty in the uniformed services with funds to pay educational expenses. Specifically, ED must establish a tax-exempt Military Education Savings Account for dependent children of parents in the uniformed services for the payment of the children's educational expenses. Funds in the savings account may be used for specified purposes, including the cost of attendance at a private elementary or secondary school or institution of higher education, private tutoring, or costs associated with an apprenticeship or other vocational training program.