New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3919

Introduced
5/9/22  

Caption

Protects patients waiting for organ transplants from certain discriminatory actions based on vaccination status.

Impact

If enacted, A3919 would amend existing medical malpractice laws by providing individuals who have been denied organ transplants based on their vaccination status the right to sue healthcare facilities and professionals for malpractice. This could lead to significant financial implications for hospitals and clinics found in violation of the law, including the potential for treble damages if the denial was based on discriminatory practices against individuals who sought exemption from vaccination on medical grounds. The bill emphasizes the importance of patient rights and autonomy in healthcare decisions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3919, introduced in New Jersey, aims to protect patients awaiting organ transplants from discriminatory practices based on their vaccination status. The bill makes it unlawful for healthcare providers to deny or deprioritize an organ transplant or related procedures due to an individual's vaccination status. This legislation seeks to guarantee equal treatment for all patients in need of life-saving transplants, ensuring that their medical needs are met irrespective of vaccination decisions.

Contention

Debate surrounding A3919 is likely to highlight the ethical implications of medical decisions made based on a patient's vaccination status. Proponents argue that no patient should be denied critical medical interventions like organ transplants due to personal health choices, labeling current practices as unjust and inhumane. On the contrary, opponents may argue that vaccination is essential for ensuring public health and safety, raising concerns about the potential health risks posed to organ transplant recipients who may face compromised immunity. The bill thus reflects ongoing societal discussions regarding healthcare rights, individual autonomy, and collective public health responsibilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ HB4076

Relating to prohibiting organ transplant recipient discrimination on the basis of vaccination status.

NJ HB522

Health; prohibit certain health care providers and facilities from discriminating against potential organ transplant recipients due solely to their vaccine status

NJ HB1163

Prohibit certain persons from requiring genetic-based vaccinations.

NJ HB1223

Provide for conscience exemptions from certain vaccinations.

NJ HB2335

health professionals; patients; vaccination status

NJ S2543

Protects children from certain mandatory vaccinations as a condition of school attendance.

NJ AB674

Prohibiting knowingly covering organ transplantation and related care under health insurance policies and the Medical Assistance program if the organ is transplanted in or originates from a country known to have participated in forced organ harvesting. (FE)

NJ SB672

Prohibiting knowingly covering organ transplantation and related care under health insurance policies and the Medical Assistance program if the organ is transplanted in or originates from a country known to have participated in forced organ harvesting. (FE)

NJ LD1055

An Act to Prohibit Discrimination in Access to Anatomical Donations and Organ Transplants

NJ SB1977

Public health; prohibiting certain entities from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations; prohibiting discrimination due to vaccination status. Emergency

Similar Bills

TX HB4076

Relating to prohibiting organ transplant recipient discrimination on the basis of vaccination status.

ME LD1055

An Act to Prohibit Discrimination in Access to Anatomical Donations and Organ Transplants

GA HB522

Health; prohibit certain health care providers and facilities from discriminating against potential organ transplant recipients due solely to their vaccine status

NY A10734

Prevents discrimination against persons with physical or mental disabilities in regards to organ donations.

MI SB0301

Corporate income tax: credits; employer credit for paid organ donation leave; provide for. Amends 1967 PA 281 (MCL 206.1 - 206.847) by adding secs. 279 & 679.

NC H1193

Rep. Mike Clampitt Bone Marrow Donation Act

NC HB1193

House Bill 1193

GA HB235

Georgia Supporting Living Donor Educators Act; enact