ANNA is pleased to share an important policy update relevant to nephrology nurses and the kidney community.
On February 3, 2026, the Honor Our Living Donors (HOLD) Act was signed into law. This bipartisan legislation expands access to federal reimbursement for living organ donors, helping cover expenses such as lost wages, travel, and caregiving costs associated with organ donation.
ANNA supported this legislation alongside many other organizations working to strengthen access to transplantation and reduce barriers for donors.
What the HOLD Act Changes
Under the previous policy, eligibility for federal organ donor reimbursement was tied to the income of the transplant recipient. As a result, many living donors were unable to access assistance and were required to absorb the financial costs of donation themselves.
The HOLD Act removes these income-based eligibility restrictions and bases reimbursement on the donor’s own financial circumstances. This change helps ensure that more living donors can access available support, regardless of the recipient’s income.
This policy update has the potential to benefit millions of Americans living with chronic kidney disease, including the more than 800,000 individuals with kidney failure who may rely on transplantation as a treatment option.
Why This Matters to Nephrology Nurses
Nephrology nurses understand the critical role transplantation plays in improving the quality of life and long-term outcomes for patients with chronic kidney disease. Financial barriers for living donors can delay or prevent transplantation, affecting patients and families alike.
By addressing these barriers, the HOLD Act supports broader access to transplantation and aligns with ongoing efforts to promote equitable, patient-centered kidney care.
The Role of Advocacy
ANNA supported the HOLD Act as part of our ongoing advocacy work focused on improving kidney care and patient outcomes. We appreciate the engagement of our members who participate in advocacy efforts and lend their voices and expertise when opportunities arise.
This legislation reflects the impact of collaboration across the kidney community, policymakers, and advocates working toward shared goals.
Take Action and Stay Engaged
Advocacy efforts like this demonstrate how sustained engagement can help move important kidney health policies forward. ANNA encourages all members to take the next step by visiting the ANNA Legislative Action Center.
The ANNA Legislative Action Center makes it easy to engage in current advocacy efforts, contact policymakers, and stay informed about federal and state issues impacting nephrology nurses and the patients they serve. Your participation helps ensure that the nephrology nursing perspective continues to be represented in policy discussions.
ANNA will continue to monitor implementation of the HOLD Act and share updates as they become available, while working alongside partners to advance policies that support kidney health.
