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New Law Could Automatically Make Texans Organ Donors

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Right now, when Texans register to get their drivers licenses, they’re able to state if they want to be an organ donor upon death. But a newly proposed bill (Texas House Bill 1938) would make being an organ donor the default option. If passed, everyone applying for a drivers license or a renewal (over the age of 18) will receive two notices allowing them to opt out. If the license holder does nothing, they will become a listed donor automatically.

Rep. Jason Villalba (the same representative who’s proposing Alamo Day) filed the organ donor bill. When he spoke to KXAN, he explained that statistically, 22 people pass away in Texas each day because they weren’t able to receive a new organ in time. He went on to say, “We found that in Texas there have been a number of individuals who are waiting for organs, how is that possible in Texas? Well, the reason is because we don’t have enough organs in Texas.”

The CW39 says this “bill will be the first of its kind in the U.S. if it is passed,” but there are similar measures taken in Europe. Those who are interested in becoming organ donors right now can register online at organdonor.gov.