Bill > HB1046

This bill amends Tennessee's laws regarding anatomical gifts by establishing a clear process for individuals, including terminal patients, to refuse organ or tissue donation. Under the new law, a person can refuse an anatomical gift through a signed writing or, in the case of a terminal patient, through an oral statement or other form of communication. Once such a refusal is documented, no other person can override or amend that decision. The bill also mandates specific procedures for procurement organizations (entities responsible for coordinating organ and tissue donations) when dealing with potential donations. If a decedent has refused donation, the procurement organization is prohibited from contacting family members and must immediately release the remains to the authorized funeral home. If a procurement organization fails to contact potential donor representatives within six hours of a person's death, they must also release the remains. Additionally, the bill introduces a enforcement mechanism where organizations that repeatedly violate these provisions can be assessed a $500 civil penalty for each violation after the third occurrence. The new law will take effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to provide clearer protections for individuals' wishes regarding organ and tissue donation.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1046&ga=114