WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1406

Relating to persons with the authority to donate a body to certain entities for the advancement of medical or forensic science.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Tan Parker

Texas bill expands authority for body donation to medical and forensic institutions by allowing additional persons to authorize donations when deceased left no explicit wishes.

Left pending in committee
#countygovernment--general(i0096) #funeralservicecommission #texas(v0004) #informedconsent(s0057) #organ&tissuedonations(s0305)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1406

Legislative bill overview

SB 1406 expands the authority for body donation in Texas by allowing additional persons beyond the deceased's documented wishes to authorize donation of a body to medical or forensic science institutions. The bill modifies existing Texas law regarding who has legal standing to make body donation decisions, potentially streamlining the process when the decedent left no explicit directive.

Why is this important

Body donation programs support medical education, surgical training, and forensic research that advances public health and criminal justice outcomes. Clarifying and expanding donation authority could increase available bodies for these purposes, but also raises questions about consent protections and family decision-making authority in end-of-life matters.

Potential points of contention

  • Consent hierarchy concerns: Expanding who can authorize donations may conflict with family wishes if the deceased's preferred hierarchy of decision-makers isn't clearly defined in the bill
  • Scope of "certain entities" undefined: The bill's reference to "certain entities" lacks specificity about which institutions qualify, potentially affecting donation oversight and standards
  • End-of-life autonomy: Balancing institutional access to bodies for research with individuals' and families' autonomy over final disposition of remains remains a sensitive ethical issue

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.