SRC-VRA S.B. 1135 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1135 78R6971 JRD-FBy: Carona Health & Human Services 3/20/2003 As Filed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Currently, kidneys are allocated in Texas in accordance with the United Network for Organ Sharing guidelines. However, several shortcomings have been identified in the current organ allocation system. Patients in Texas do not have access to every donor organ as a result of the current geographic boundaries. Additionally, there are differences in listing criteria used by the transplant centers to prioritize patients on the waiting list. As proposed, S.B. 1135 directs the Texas Department of Health to assist in facilitating discussion among the three Texas Organ Procurement Organizations on the establishment of contiguous Organ Allocation Areas or a suitable alternative geographic configuration for kidney allocation that addresses organ availability and equalization in patient waiting times for transplants. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS. Defines "department" and "organ procurement organization." SECTION 2. KIDNEY ALLOCATION SYSTEM; WAIVERS AND VARIANCES TO ALTER CURRENT SYSTEM. Requires TDH to offer its services as a mediator and facilitator to the organ procurement organizations for the purpose of developing the waivers or variances that will, on approval by the appropriate authorities, allow the current system of allocating kidneys available for transplant in this state to be changed as described by this Act. SECTION 3. ORGAN ALLOCATION AREAS. Provides that under the changed allocation system, contiguous organ allocation areas or a suitable alternative geographic configuration of areas for kidney allocation will be established to address organ availability and to equalize waiting times for a transplant. SECTION 4. EXPIRATION. Provides that this Act expires September 1, 2005. SECTION 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2003.