Governor Signs New Law to Convert Heart on the Driver’s License to Legal Consent for Organ Donation
Governor Easley has signed a new law that will convert the existing heart symbol on the driver’s license to legal consent for organ and eye donation. Previously the symbol signified only the intent to donate. The “Heart Prevails” bill was sponsored by Representatives Folwell (R–Winston-Salem), Holliman (D-Lexington), Clary (R-Cherryville) and Wainwright (D-Havelock).
“The Heart Prevails legislation puts into action what most North Carolinians thought was already law… that putting the heart on your driver’s license to become a donor is honored legally,” said Representative Dale Folwell, who has personal experience with organ donation. “I filed this bill in honor of Tim Dillon who died in 2006. Tim was a generous husband, father, and community leader who wanted very much to be a donor, but his opportunity was missed. With the help of Carolina Donor Services and 13 other state and private agencies, the North Carolina General Assembly and, now, Governor Easley’s signature, this law will increase the likelihood that people similar to Tim are able to save lives through organ donation.”
The heart on the license symbol is entered into a Division of Motor Vehicle (DMV) registry and can only be accessed by the state’s organ and eye procurement organizations at the time of death. If a person has indicated that they would like to be an organ donor the procurement agencies work with families to walk them through the process of honoring their loved one’s wishes. The NC Coalition on Donation is pursuing a way to enter the registry online in addition to a visit to the DMV.
“This is excellent news for those on the transplant waiting list,” said Director of Communications and Marketing for Carolina Donor Services, Jeannine Sato. “There is a shortage of organ donors and as a result there are thousands waiting for transplants. This law puts the decision making power in the hands of the donor.”
North Carolina is one of 19 states to pass a revised Uniform Anatomical Gift Act, upon which House Bill 1372 is based. Nine other states have introduced similar bills. House Bill 1372 takes effect on October 1, 2007.
About Carolina Donor Services
Carolina Donor Services is the federally designated, non-profit organ and tissue donation organization serving 79 counties of North Carolina and Danville, Virginia. The public may request additional information by visiting www.carolinadonorservices.org or by calling 1-800-200-2672.