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

Trenton – In an effort to protect living organ donors and encourage others to join their ranks, the Senate passed legislation today, sponsored by Senators James Beach and Nicholas Scutari, that would prevent insurance companies from discriminating against living organ donors.

“For the large number of people who desperately need a 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 are often charged higher rates or denied coverage. This is simply unacceptable. There are so many individuals in New Jersey in need of transplants, so, 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 status as a living organ donor.

The bill was released from the Senate by a vote of 32-0.