By WJBC Staff

SPRINGFIELD – A new bill in Illinois would let teens join Illinois organ donor registry.

Under current law, you must be 18 to join the registry, but with thousands waiting for an organ, Secretary of state Jesse White said teens should be able to volunteer to give the gift of life.

“Our goal is to save lives,” White said. “Thousands of Illinoisans are on the waiting list for organs and we want to make sure that we do all we can to give them an opportunity to have a second chance at life or help to improve their quality of life.”

The measure is sponsored in the Illinois House by Representatives Dan Brady (R-Bloomington) and Deb Conroy (D-Villa Park), whose husband is among the thousands waiting for an organ.

“In the state of Illinois alone last year, 300 people lose their battle waiting,” Conroy said. “This is legislation that would also empower our young adults to let their intentions be known and start a conversation. The conversation is what we need so we can save more lives”

Under the bill, parents could ultimately revoke the donation if something happens to their teen. Forty-seven other states have a similar law.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].