October 19, 1984
Today I am signing into law S. 2048, the National Organ Transplant Act. This legislation covers
an area in which I have been personally involved: promoting the donation of organs, especially
liver transplants for children. I am pleased that the Congress worked with the administration to
produce a bill that will enhance this effort.
This bipartisan legislation provides a framework that should help increase the overall supply of
much needed organs and improve our ability to match donor organs with individuals in need of
transplants. Over the last 3 years, I have urged the American people to remember that many lives
could be saved through generous donations of life-saving organs. I have been encouraged by the
response of the media and the public to this compassionate cause. This act will serve to support
this ongoing work.
A 25-member task force is created by the act to examine and report on a wide range of important
issues in the field of organ transplantation. The task force will also report on medical and
economic issues related to immunosuppressive drugs, which are used to prevent organ
rejection.
Also, the Government will provide support for the establishment of an Organ Procurement and
Transplantation Network in the private sector to maintain a national registry that will be used to
match available organs with people who need them.
I believe that this act strikes a proper balance between private and public sector efforts to
promote organ transplantation, which should encourage families with loved ones who are
awaiting a suitable organ. I am pleased to sign the National Organ Transplant Act that will
support this humanitarian effort.
Note: As enacted, S. 2048 is Public Law 98 - 507, approved October 19.