SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5575

                As Passed Senate, March 7, 1995

Title:  An act relating to anatomical gift by persons under the age of eighteen.

Brief Description:  Allowing persons at least sixteen years of age to make anatomical gifts if a parent or guardian signs the document of gift.

Sponsors:  Senators Sheldon, Gaspard, Moyer, Wood, Finkbeiner and Winsley; by request of Governor Lowry.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long-Term Care:  2/16/95 [DP].

Passed Senate, 3/7/95, 47-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Majority Report:  Do pass.

  Signed by Senators Quigley, Chair; Wojahn, Vice Chair; Deccio, Fairley, Franklin, Moyer, Winsley and Wood.

Staff:  Joanne Conrad (786-7472)

Background:  Adults may donate organs by following a statutory procedure, including a signed and witnessed document of gift.

Summary of Bill:  Individuals between the ages of 16 and 18 may make anatomical gifts, by following the statutory procedure and by obtaining the signed consent of their parent or guardian.  If the consent is not obtained, the gift becomes valid when the individual reaches the age of 18.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For:  The act will encourage and increase much-needed organ donations.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  Senator Sheldon; Kathy Kelly, Governor's Office; Danielle Dooley, Youth Legislature; Donna Orland, Lion's Eye Bank; Cathy Sanders, NW Organ Procurement Agency.