New York is lowering the age at which drivers can register to become organ donors from 18 down to 16.
Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the law Thursday, saying thousands of New Yorkers are waiting for organs and this will help to grow the registry of potential donors. The law includes a provision for parents to rescind that consent if their child dies before turning 18.
The law takes effect in six months. After that, New Yorkers who apply for a learner's permit to drive at age 16 or 17 will be able to register for the New York State Donate Life Registry.
Legislative sponsors say 47 other states have either no restriction on the minimum age for donor registration or allow enrollment younger than age 18.