Madison - Thousands of people in Wisconsin are on organ waiting lists. On Tuesday, the Wisconsin State Assembly approved a bipartisan bill authored State Senator Alberta Darling to make easier to be a living donor.
Senator Darling's late husband, Dr. Bill Darling, was on an organ transplant list. Darling says she hopes to bring more attention to the need for organ donation.
"Around 2,000 people in Wisconsin are waiting for organs," Darling said, "It's my hope this bill will encourage more people to be living donors and raise awareness for the issue."
Senate Bill 517 allows a donor to take doctor recommended recovery time if they donate an organ or bone marrow. More than 120 living organ donations occurred in Wisconsin last year. However, only 57% of eligible Wisconsin ID holders are signed up to be organ donors. Darling urges more people to become organ donors.
"I am very pleased this bipartisan bill has the support of so many health care groups, medical professionals, and faith based organizations," Darling said, "I also want to thank Speaker Robin Vos for his leadership in passing this bill."
Senate Bill 517 now heads to Governor Walker's desk for final approval.
Senator Darling represents portions of Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington and Waukesha Counties.
