The bill introduced by Senator Pressly seeks to amend the Louisiana Revised Statutes concerning the Anatomical Gift Act, establishing clearer procedures for executing anatomical gifts, which are donations of human body parts for various purposes. It introduces key definitions such as "authorization," "consent," and "donation after circulatory death," while also clarifying the authority to execute or revoke anatomical gifts. Notably, the bill allows refusals to make anatomical gifts to be documented in the same manner as the gifts themselves, ensuring that individuals' wishes regarding organ donation are respected and legally binding.

Additionally, the bill outlines the establishment of a registry for anatomical gifts, accessible at all times for individuals to record their decisions. It mandates that the handling of a decedent's body must be conducted with dignity and in accordance with family expectations, while prohibiting any premortem interventions that could hasten death unless medically indicated. The legislation also clarifies that anatomical gift decisions made in other states will be recognized if valid under that state's laws, and it emphasizes that decisions made by minors require parental consent to be legally effective. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
SB427 Original: 17:2357(A)
SB427 Engrossed: 17:2357(A)
SB427 Reengrossed: 17:2357(A)