"JENNA'S LAW": BLOOD DONATION S.B. 419:
ANALYSIS AS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE
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Senate Bill 419 (as reported without amendment) (as passed by the Senate)
Sponsor: Senator Wayne Kuipers
Committee: Health Policy
Date Completed: 5-1-09
RATIONALE
According to Michigan Community Blood Centers, about 43,000 pints of blood are used every day in the United States and Canada. These blood transfusions reportedly save 4.5 million lives every year. Shortages in the blood supply are not uncommon, however, especially during the summer months and winter holidays.
In Michigan, under Public Act 22 of 1971, an individual who is at least 17 years old may donate blood in a voluntary and noncompensatory blood program without obtaining his or her parent's or legal guardian's permission or authorization. In order to increase the number of eligible blood donors, it has been suggested that 16-year-olds also be allowed to donate, with parental consent.
CONTENT
The bill would amend Public Act 22 of 1971 to allow a person who was 16 years old to donate blood in a voluntary and noncompensatory blood program with his or her parent's or legal guardian's permission or authorization. The bill also would name the Act "Jenna's Law".
MCL 722.41
ARGUMENTS
(Please note: The arguments contained in this analysis originate from sources outside the Senate Fiscal Agency. The Senate Fiscal Agency neither supports nor opposes legislation.)
Supporting Argument
While the number of blood donations has increased, it has not kept up with the increase in demand for blood and blood products. Shortages occur frequently, especially among specific blood types. Reportedly, 30 states have enacted legislation allowing 16-year-olds to donate blood with parental consent. Enacting similar legislation in Michigan would help alleviate the shortages and save lives. It is estimated that the bill would increase blood collections at high school drives by 10% to 20%. Additionally, the bill would create a new opportunity for 16-year-olds to engage in valuable community service.
Legislative Analyst: Julie Cassidy
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.
Fiscal Analyst: Matthew GrabowskiAnalysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent. sb419/0910