New Kentucky law adds safeguards to organ donation process to better protect patients

The legislation came after a federal investigation sparked by a Kentucky man who woke up before organ removal surgery in 2021.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A new Kentucky law establishes safeguards for organ donations to better protect patients.

Gov. Andy Beshear signed House Bill 510, known as the Organ Donation Pause in Procedure Act, into law.

The law mandates an immediate pause in organ donation if there is a change in neurological status or any indication of possible life.

The legislation came after a federal investigation prompted by TJ Hoover, a Kentucky man who woke up before organ removal surgery in 2021. Medical records say Hoover had been declared brain dead in 2021 and was being prepared for organ donation when he regained consciousness — a stunning turn that raised serious questions about the organ donation process.

Network for Hope, which is the organ donation provider for several states, including Kentucky, released a statement in support of HB 510.

"House Bill 510 highlights the importance of public trust, transparency, and ethical and clinical standards that prioritize patient safety and human dignity," the nonprofit said. "These are goals Network for Hope shares."

The nonprofit said the law strengthens the organ donation and transplant system throughout the commonwealth while reinforcing public trust in the donation process.

To read more about the new law, click here.