We plan to introduce a resolution designating April 2026 as “Pennsylvania Donate Life Month”.

The importance of organ donation cannot be overstated, as transplants have been recognized as life-enhancing and life-saving medical procedures. A single donor has the potential to save eight lives, restore sight to two people, and enhance the quality of over 75 others.

Senator Culver is proof that organ donation transforms lives. Five years ago, she was the recipient of a kidney graciously donated by her sister, after spending three years on an organ waitlist. During that time, she only received one call regarding a donor match but was fourth on the list for the available kidney.

Like thousands of other Pennsylvanians, Senator Williams knows what it feels like to watch a loved one battle with kidney disease. Her uncle recently passed away after years on dialysis and her friend served as a living donor after seeing a friend’s social media post seeking a match for her 7-year-old son.

In the United States, it is estimated that more than 108,000 people are awaiting organ and tissue transplants and in Pennsylvania alone, there are more than 5,700 men, women, and children on the transplant waiting list.

It is important to recognize that the Commonwealth has contributed significantly to the advancement of organ donation and life-saving transplants. Pennsylvania has several major transplant centers and state law allows individuals to donate their organs and tissue by indicating their donor status on their driver's licenses or state identification cards. Family members are also permitted to consent to the donation of a deceased relative's organs and tissue.

Fortunately, Pennsylvania continues to be a national and international leader in organ donation and transplantation. However, the number of people waiting for transplants far outpaces the availability of organs and tissue. Despite advancements made through initiatives such as Pennsylvania’s Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Program, the Gift of Life Donor Program, the Center for Organ Recovery and Education, and their partnerships with hospitals and dedicated healthcare professionals, the increasing demand for donated organs and tissue has become a significant public health challenge that requires immediate attention. Another person is added to the transplant waiting list every eight minutes.

Please join us in co-sponsoring this resolution so we can continue to educate our fellow citizens on the life-saving importance of organ and tissue donation efforts.