Apr. 27, 2021
HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Tarah Toohil (R-Luzerne) that protects living organ donors in Pennsylvania was signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf as
Act 11 of 2021 today.
“I am elated to finally see the Living Donor Protection Act become a reality and look forward to the positive impact it will have on organ donation programs in Pennsylvania,” said Toohil. “My sincere thanks to the many individuals and organizations that advocated on behalf of this important piece of legislation.”
Act 11, or the Living Donor Protection Act, prohibits a life or health insurance company from discriminating against an organ or tissue donor. It also ensures family and medical leave is provided for an eligible employee for the preparation and recovery necessary for donation surgery. In addition, the proposal requires the Department of Health to develop informational materials relating to living donors and the benefits of live organ and tissue donation.
“Supporting living donors by enacting this critical legislation not only saves lives, but reduces barriers to kidney transplantation,” said Dr. Paul Palevsky, National Kidney Foundation (NKF) president. “NKF celebrates this long-awaited victory and applauds the continued efforts of Gov. Wolf, State Rep. Toohil and the Pennsylvania Legislature for making it a reality for kidney patients in our state.”
“This important new law will ensure that Pennsylvania state residents who decide to make the life-saving gift of organ donation will have the assurance of knowing they won’t face discrimination from insurers because of their profoundly generous deed,” said LaVarne Burton, American Kidney Fund CEO. “We are grateful to Rep. Toohil for not only setting an example by being a living organ donor herself, but also for introducing this piece of legislation.”
Toohil donated a kidney to her late mother in 2003 and has been a strong advocate for organ donation during her House tenure.
The new law will take effect in 60 days.
Representative Tarah Toohil
116th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Contact: Rep. Toohil’s Office
717-260-6136
RepToohil.com /
Facebook.com/RepToohil