[BBC] Inmates should be able to donate organs or bone marrow in exchange for reduced time in prison, according to a proposed bill in Massachusetts.
Donors would receive at least 60 days but no more than one year off their sentences.
but a permanent lifetime of Democrat voting for a brain donation
Two state lawmakers - both Democrats - claim the bill would "restore bodily autonomy" to incarcerated people.
But critics warn it is unethical and preys on inmates' desperation.
Organ donation is currently allowed in US federal prisons, but only if the recipient is an immediate family member.
The proposed bill in Massachusetts is designed to establish a donation programme within the state's department of corrections. Nearly 5,000 residents in the state are on an organ transplant waiting list.
State Representative Carlos Gonzalez said providing more potential donors could help patients in need of transplants to get life-saving care. He told Boston.com he had been inspired in part by a close friend who has stage four kidney failure and requires dialysis.
Political observers say it is unlikely that the bill will become law. |