CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia is poised to become one of the first states in the nation to allow residents to register as organ, eye and tissue donors while completing their voter registration, following the implementation of House Bill 4638. The initiative is a partnership between the Secretary of State’s Office and the Center for Organ Recovery & Education (CORE), and officials say it could significantly expand access to donor registration statewide.
Since the law took effect on June 8, nearly 250 West Virginians have already signed up to be organ donors through the new voter‑registration pathway. According to Donate Life America, New York is currently the only state confirmed to offer donor registration through voter registration, making West Virginia the second in the nation to adopt the approach.
The announcement comes at a critical time: more than 500 West Virginians are waiting for a life‑saving organ transplant.
“West Virginians are known for helping their neighbors in times of need,” Secretary of State Kris Warner said. “By integrating donor registration into the voter registration process, we’re creating another opportunity for residents to make their wishes known while participating in one of our most fundamental civic responsibilities.”
Under the new law, individuals registering to vote — either online or through approved paper forms — will be given the option to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. Participation is voluntary and does not affect voter eligibility or election participation. Those who choose to enroll will have their information securely transmitted to the National Donate Life Registry.
In 2025, 121 West Virginians became organ donors, giving the gift of life to others. CORE President and CEO Susan Stuart said every new registration represents hope for the hundreds still waiting.
“For the more than 500 West Virginians awaiting a transplant, increasing donor registration is about more than statistics,” Stuart said. “It’s about creating more opportunities for life‑saving transplants and honoring the wishes of individuals who choose to give the gift of life.”
The initiative builds on previous efforts, including donor registration offered through West Virginia’s hunting and fishing license system — another partnership between CORE and the Division of Natural Resources.
Residents seeking more information about organ, eye and tissue donation can visit DonateLifeWV.org.
