HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                      Olympia, Washington

Bill Analysis     Bill No.  SSB 5828

Relating to the Washington Gift of Life award

Brief Title                              Hearing Date: 3/23/99

Senators Sheldon, B., Snyder, and Franklin Staff:  Scott MacColl

Sponsor(s)                          State Government Committee

                                              Phone:  786-7106

BACKGROUND:

The Washington Gift of Life medal is awarded to persons who donate all or part of a human body upon or after death.  The medal was established in 1998 consisting of inscribed bronze, and is awarded by the Governor.

An organ procurement organization is defined as any accredited or certified organ or eye bank.

Application for a Gift of Life medal must be made to the Governor=s office by the family of an organ donor, or by an organ procurement organization on behalf of the person or family members.  Eligibility is determined and the medal is presented by the organ procurement organization.

SUMMARY:

The Washington Gift of Life is altered in form to an award, as opposed to a medal.  The organ procurement organization nominates six individuals, and the awards are to be presented to representative families annually by the Governor=s office in coordination with the organ procurement organization.

FISCAL NOTE:  Not requested.

EFFECTIVE DATE:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.