With the introduction of a custom New York State license plate, motorists in the Empire State can now promote organ and tissue donation. In the process, they can indirectly provide much needed funds to educate the public about organ and tissue donation.

The plate, which incorporates the branding messages, “Donate Life” and “Life...Pass It On,” was unveiled at a news conference on June 21 at the Legislative Office Building in Albany . Twenty dollars out of the annual renewal fee will be credited to the Life Pass It On Trust Fund, overseen by the Department of Health.  

Addressing the media were Raymond P. Martinez, state commissioner of motor vehicles and chair of the governor's traffic safety committee; legislative sponsors Senator Kemp Hannon and Assemblyman Sam Hoyt; and co-sponsor Assemblyman James Conte.

Commissioner Martinez said that, thanks to Governor George Pataki and the legislators present at the news conference, the new plate gives New Yorkers a great way to promote donation. He added: “In addition to purchasing this plate, New Yorkers can support organ and tissue donation and become a donor by checking the ‘organ donation' box on the back of their license.”

Senator Hannon said, “With the enhanced awareness, there will be a greater willingness to donate, as well as more transplant recipients as living testament that organ and tissue donation really works.”

Commenting on the launch of the license plate, Carla Williams, executive director of the New York State Alliance for Donation, Inc., said, “It certainly will increase discussions on the roadways as supporters of this issue order the plate.  It will be a great opportunity for people to speak with their families and loved ones about this matter as they head down highways all over the country.”