Bill Makes Organ Donations Automatic

Faced with a growing need for organ transplants, the Senate has passed a bill making all Brazilians presumed organ donors unless they specifically state otherwise.

The bill, approved Thursday, changes a 1992 law that requires would-be organ donors to stipulate that wish in writing.

The bill now goes to President Fernando Henrique Cardoso for signing.

Under the bill, those opposed to donating their organs must have “non-donor” written on an identification card or driver’s license.