(ANCHORAGE) - HB 337, the Anatomical Gift Registry Act, moved out of House Health and Social Service committee Thursday, well on its way to a House vote. Intended to create an organ donor registry linked to voluntary donors within the DMV system, the bill creates a database that allows organ procurement organizations such as LifeAlaska and Lifecenter Northwest to get donor information quickly and efficiently.

"The intent of the bill is to make it easier at the time of an accident for health and public safety officials, to recognize donors in a timely enough matter to save Alaskan lives," said Rep. McGuire. McGuire went on to say, "States that have authorized their DMV's to register organ and tissue donors have seen a dramatic rise in the number of donors."

Among the people testifying before the committee was Ray Vidic, a Juneau resident. Vidic's compelling testimony recounted the trials his friend has endured for ten years and continues to endure while waiting for a kidney transplant. From tri-weekly dialysis sessions, to weekly weight fluctuations of twenty pounds or more, Vidic's friend spends everyday hoping to see the next.

When speaking of the need for this type of legislature and the promotion of the cause Vidic said, "We are doing what he can't do, because he is busy just trying to stay alive." More to the point Vidic speaking to the committee said, "If we save even one life, you have all done a wonderful thing."

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