DIFS Director Anita Fox Issues Statement as Governor Signs Important Living Organ Donor Protection Law

Media Contact:?Laura Hall, 517-290-3779, [email protected]?
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 7, 2023

(LANSING, MICH) Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox issued the following statement in response to Governor Gretchen Whitmer signing Senate Bill 384, a move that prohibits insurers from denying or limiting life, health, or long-term care insurance coverage because someone is a living organ donor and makes other changes to help reduce financial barriers for those who choose to donate.

?When living organ donors give the gift of hope to another person, they make a heroic personal sacrifice. Unfortunately, before Governor Whitmer signed Senate Bill 384 into law, those heroes could sometimes face higher insurance premiums, have their insurance cancelled, or even be denied insurance, despite medical evidence that shows they have no greater health risk than people who have not donated an organ. As the state agency responsible for regulating insurance companies in Michigan, DIFS will work to ensure that insurers follow all aspects of the Michigan Insurance Code including this important new consumer protection.?

Senate Bill 384 is the one of the recent policy changes aimed at increasing the pool of potential living organ donors and reducing the years-long wait time for lifesaving kidney, liver, and other organ transplants. The Office of the State Employer recently announced that eligible state employees can now receive up to 60 calendar days of paid leave to recover from an eligible organ donation, and up to 30 calendar days to recover from a bone marrow donation. These policies will help lessen the economic burden for individuals who chose to donate an organ while encouraging more people to become living organ donors.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS?or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

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