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 decisions. The bill defines key terms such as 'disability,' 'qualified individual,' and 'covered entity' to establish a legal framework for preventing discrimination. It ensures that qualified individuals with disabilities have equal access to organ transplants and related services, promoting fairness and inclusivity in healthcare.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to increased access to organ transplants for individuals with disabilities. It mandates reasonable modifications to policies and practices to accommodate these individuals. 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 fairness and inclusivity in healthcare.
- Mandates reasonable modifications to policies and practices to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
- Establishes an enforcement mechanism through the Department of Health and Human Services' Office for Civil Rights.
- Reinforces existing protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase the administrative burden on healthcare providers to ensure compliance.
- Could potentially lead to legal challenges regarding the interpretation of 'medically significant disabilities.'
- Might require additional resources for the Office for Civil Rights to handle enforcement claims.
- There is a potential for increased costs associated with providing auxiliary aids and services.
- Some may argue that it infringes on the medical judgment of physicians.
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill aligns with the principles of equal protection and non-discrimination, potentially falling under Congress's power to enforce the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause. It also relates to the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by promoting public health and well-being. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) is invoked through the definition of 'covered entity,' which includes entities in interstate commerce or affecting it.
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).