Michigan Law Offers Tax Credit for Organ Donors

Michigan has enacted a new law providing a one-time tax credit of up to $10,000 for living organ donors, aimed at alleviating non-medical expenses associated with organ donation. Introduced by State Rep. Felicia Brabec and signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the law is part of a broader initiative to encourage organ donation and address the flat number of living donors in the state, which currently stands at under 200 annually. Advocates, including Patrick Wells-O'Brien from Gift of Life Michigan, hope that this financial incentive will help increase donor numbers and save more lives, particularly as approximately 2,500 residents await organ transplants. The tax credit can be claimed starting in the 2025 tax year, and it is designed to cover costs such as child care, transportation, and lost wages, though it does not address medical expenses. The legislation is seen as a significant step in improving Michigan's organ donation policy, previously ranked poorly in terms of public policy friendliness towards donors. For those interested, individuals can register as donors when renewing their driver's licenses or through the Gift of Life Michigan website.