Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, has filed legislation to prohibit discrimination against a potential organ transplant recipient based solely on the person’s physical or mental disability.

Rosino said Senate Bill 378, creating Everett’s Law, was requested by Edmond parents Rhys and Neely Gay.  Their middle child, Everett, was diagnosed with Down Syndrome shortly after he was born.  He also had a congenital heart defect.

“He’s three and has already had five surgeries.  He’s healthy and happy, but there’s still a lot of uncertainty in his life.  We’ve met other parents on this journey and learned that simply having diagnosis of Down Syndrome could be grounds for a child being turned down for an organ transplant,” said Everett’s father, Rhys.

“I think most Oklahomans would be shocked to know that currently a person can be denied a transplant or coverage simply because of a disability,” Rosino said. “As a father, as a grandfather and legislator, I find this inconceivable.  Everett’s Law would prevent such discrimination.  It’s something 12 other states have already approved, and another dozen are considering.”