Assemblyman Felix W. Ortiz (D-51st) will soon introduce legislation to assist those who give the gift of life through an organ donation. Ortiz bill would provide organ donors a tax rebate to cover the expenses associated with the process of donating an organ. The expenses and lost wages accrued during the donation and recovery process can be quite substantial and could prevent suitable donors from participating. A tax rebate of up to $10,000 would be offered to the donor to cover travel expenses, lodging and lost wages due to the procedure.

"I could not fathom anyone more deserving of assistance than someone who gives the gift of life to another person. Donating an organ to someone in need is a beautiful and selfless act that should not be burdened with financial issues. The expenses associated with the process of donating an organ can be beyond the means of some. To assure that everyone has the ability to give such a precious gift without financial hardship, it is in the public interest for the state to help out. In a life and death situation such as someone needing an organ transplant expenses should not be an issue and with this bill they will not have to be." stated Ortiz.

"This rebate will allow donors to do what they need to do most concentrate on their recovery." continued Ortiz.