Rep. Toohil

Rep. Toohil

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WILKES-BARRE — Rep. Tarah Toohil Tuesday said she’s elated to finally see the Living Donor Protection Act become a reality and she look forward to the positive impact it will have on organ donation programs in Pennsylvania,

Legislation sponsored by Toohil, R-Butler Township, that protects living organ donors in Pennsylvania was signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf Tuesday as Act 11 of 2021.

“My sincere thanks to the many individuals and organizations that advocated on behalf of this important piece of legislation,” Toohil said.

Toohil said 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, Rep. Toohil and the Pennsylvania Legislature for making it a reality for kidney patients in our state.”

LaVarne Burton, American Kidney Fund CEO, said “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. 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.

Reach Bill O’Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.