FILE NUMBER........

Whereas, There is a critical shortage of donor organs and tissues

available for transplantation in the United States; and

Whereas, A national survey recently revealed that although 87 percent

of the population in the United States support organ and tissue donation,

only 50 percent of those surveyed have told a family member or friend

about their decision; and

Whereas, Four out of five people mistakenly believe that a signed

donor card is all that is required for donation and are not aware that the

legal next-of-kin must sign a consent form; and

Whereas, Even if a person has agreed to donate his organs and tissues,

most donors are unaware that it is possible for their donation to be offered

first to any transplant candidate living in Nevada under a procedure known

as "directed donation"; and

Whereas, Without "directed donation," any donated organ or tissue

originating in Nevada is shipped to a procurement agency in California; and

Whereas, Because of the overwhelming need of organs and tissues in

California, Nevadans often are not able to receive donated organs in a

timely fashion; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of Nevada, the Senate

Concurring, That members of the Legislature of the State of Nevada do

hereby urge and encourage all Nevadans to notify family members that they

want any organ or tissue donation to be directed first to transplant

candidates who are residents of Nevada.

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