Bill > HB1481

This bill clarifies rules around blood donations for patients, defining "autologous blood donation" as blood collected from a patient for their own future use and "directed blood donation" as blood collected from someone else specifically for a patient's use. It prohibits tissue banks and hospitals from refusing a physician-ordered autologous or directed blood donation simply because of their internal policies, as long as all safety, testing, and regulatory requirements are met. However, these institutions can decline such a donation request if it's not feasible due to medical, logistical, or regulatory reasons, with decisions about the medical appropriateness of the donation resting with the treating physician in consultation with the patient. The bill also mandates that tissue banks and hospitals provide clear information to patients about their blood donation options.

Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1481?ys=2026RS