H.R.1520 - Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1520, the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act, aims to prohibit discrimination against individuals with mental or physical disabilities in organ transplantation. It defines key terms like 'covered entity,' 'disability,' and 'qualified individual' to ensure clarity and scope. The bill seeks to ensure equal access to organ transplants and related services for individuals with disabilities.
Expected Effects
This act will prevent healthcare providers from denying organ transplants or related services based solely on a person's disability. It mandates reasonable modifications to policies and practices to accommodate individuals with disabilities. The bill also establishes an enforcement mechanism through the Department of Health and Human Services' Office for Civil Rights.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Ensures equal access to organ transplants for individuals with disabilities.
- Promotes social equity by preventing discrimination in healthcare.
- Mandates reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities during the transplant process.
- Provides a legal recourse for individuals who experience discrimination.
- Reinforces the principles of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase the demand for organ transplants, potentially straining the existing organ supply.
- Could lead to legal challenges regarding the interpretation of 'medically significant' disabilities.
- May require healthcare providers to invest in additional resources to provide necessary accommodations.
- Potential for increased administrative burden due to enforcement and compliance requirements.
- Some may argue that medical suitability should be the sole determining factor, regardless of disability status.
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill aligns with the principles of equal protection and the pursuit of general welfare, as outlined in the Constitution's preamble. While the Constitution does not explicitly address healthcare, the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) provides a basis for federal regulation of healthcare providers engaged in interstate commerce. The Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause supports the prohibition of discrimination based on disability.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).