Permanent OPTN Fee Authority Act
Summary
The "Permanent OPTN Fee Authority Act" authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to collect registration fees from members of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) for each transplant candidate they register. These fees are intended to support the operation of the OPTN. The bill also mandates transparency in the collection and use of these fees, and requires a GAO review of the activities funded by them.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to a more sustainable funding model for the OPTN, potentially improving its efficiency and effectiveness. The increased transparency requirements could enhance public trust in the organ transplantation system. The GAO review will provide oversight and ensure accountability in the use of the collected fees.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a dedicated funding source for the OPTN, potentially improving its operations.
- Increases transparency in the organ transplantation process through public reporting of fee collection and usage.
- Mandates a GAO review to ensure accountability and efficiency in the use of funds.
- Could lead to better data collection and analysis, as suggested by the dashboard provision.
- Potentially reduces reliance on general appropriations for OPTN funding.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The registration fees could potentially increase the cost of transplantation for patients or hospitals.
- There is a risk that the fees could disproportionately affect smaller transplant centers.
- The implementation of the fee collection and distribution process could create administrative overhead.
- The GAO review is only mandated two years after enactment, which may delay identification of potential issues.
- The act does not specify the amount of the registration fees, leaving it to the discretion of the Secretary.
Constitutional Alignment
The act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). It enables Congress to legislate for the betterment of public health by improving the organ transplantation system. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).