We’re excited to announce a major legislative victory in the fight to support living organ donors. On December 17, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the Honor Our Living Donors (HOLD) Act (H.R. 6020), a bipartisan bill–one of three bills introduced this year–that aims to remove financial barriers for those considering living organ donation. This milestone brings new hope to patients battling kidney disease, including those in the IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) community. Learn what the bill can do if passed into law, and how you can help make it happen.*

Breaking Financial Barriers for Living Donors

For people with IgAN, where kidney transplants often offer the best path to improved health, the HOLD Act is transformative. By reforming the National Living Donor Assistance Center’s reimbursement system, the bill ensures that living donors—not just recipients—receive financial aid for travel, childcare, and lost wages during recovery. 

This change addresses a critical concern, enabling more people to consider life-saving organ donation.

Additionally, the legislation requires annual reporting to Congress, enhancing transparency around funding and outcomes. With over 92,000 Americans awaiting kidney transplants, the HOLD Act creates new possibilities for expanding living donations, offering fresh hope to many in the IgAN community.

Why the HOLD Act Matters

Despite the pressing need for kidney transplants, only about 6,000 living donations occur each year—a number that has remained stagnant, partially due to financial concerns among potential donors. By tackling these challenges, the HOLD Act can drive meaningful change, shorten wait times, and improve patient outcomes.

The journey isn’t over, however. The Senate version of the HOLD Act (S. 5504) has just been introduced. Continued advocacy and public support is critical to advance this life-saving legislation and secure a brighter future for kidney patients.

Call to Action

Support the Honor Our Living Donors (HOLD) Act in the Senate today by adding your name to this petition. Your voice can help ensure that financial concerns never stand in the way of life-saving organ donations!

*Miller, S. (2024, December 18). A Big Win for Our IgA Nephropathy Community [Newsletter].  IgA Nephropathy Foundation.