The Age Of Consent For Organ Donation Will Drop From 18 To 15 Years Old

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Posted: 8:31 PM Mar 11, 2008 The Age Of Consent For Organ Donation Will Drop From 18 To 15 Years Old The age of consent for organ donation in Wisconsin will drop from 18 to 15 years old. Reporter: Margo Spann Email Address: margo.spann@wsaw.com

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The age of consent for organ donation in Wisconsin will drop from 18 to 15 years old. A new bill would lower the age in hopes of increasing the number of available organ donors. The bill also would establish a donor registry and if a persons wishes are unclear doctors are given the authority to override a family member's wishes. Sonja Stephenson, Chairperson of the Donate Life Committee at Marshfield Clinic says the bill is a good idea, and offers tips to make your wishes known. " If you wish to be a donor sigh the back of your license, make sure you have a health-care power of attorney and make sure your family knows your wishes," says Stephenson.

Brian Heggelund received a double lung transplant ten years ago. He says donating is a very personal decision, but he agrees with the legislation. He says his new lungs have given him a new life.
"I've gone hunting, skiing... it's been a god sent... my legs may give out before my lungs will, says Heggelund.

Jessica Erickson, Spokesperson for Governor Jim Doyle says he will sign this bill into law very soon.