Sponsor Statement for SB 38

This legislation modifies existing statute dealing with living wills and would add to that statute a provision by which those who execute living wills can choose to become organ or tissue donors. By adding this provision to the statutory language of a living will, loved ones and health professionals would be fully informed of the wishes of family members and patients.

We live in a technological age in which the need for tissue and organ donation has found a much greater demand than supply. While it is not a legitimate function of government to dictate whether or not a person should become an organ or tissue donor, it is certainly a wise practice for government to facilitate this process.

In addition to adding anatomical gifts to the language of a living will, Senate Bill 38 would also instruct the Division of Motor Vehicles to indicate on drivers' licenses not only the fact that the bearer has elected to become an organ donor, but also that the individual has a living will.

Other than nominal expenses, this legislation should cost little to enforce, but may become invaluable if it increases Alaskans' participation in organ and tissue donation. Certainly any one of us, our families and loved ones, could benefit by an organ or tissue donation made less complicated by this bill.