Beach-Scutari Bill to Prohibit Discrimination Against Living Organ Donors Clears Committee

Trenton – Legislation sponsored by Senators James Beach and Nicholas Scutari that would prevent insurance companies from discriminating against living organ donors cleared the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.

“For the large number of people who desperately need an organ transplant, organ donors are their heroes,” said Senator Beach (D-Burlington/Camden). “However, living donors are viewed as a liability to insurance companies and as a result often charged higher rates or denied coverage. This is unacceptable. With so many individuals in need of transplants, it is important we do everything we can to encourage donations.”

“Rating insurance based on a person’s status as a living organ donor is immoral and downright wrong,” said Senator Scutari (D-Union/Middlesex/Somerset). “Living organ donors have made a significant sacrifice to save the life of someone else and they deserve protection so they are not penalized for that decision.”

The bill, S-2315, would prohibit life, health and long-term care insurers from charging higher premiums or declining or limiting coverage based on an individual’s health status as a living organ donor.

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 8-0.