By AP/KWMU
Springfield, Ill – Illinois may become the first state that lets people with HIV donate organs to others with the virus.
The Senate voted 55-2 today to allow organ transplants among people who have the virus that causes AIDS. The House approved the measure in March.
It now goes to Governor Rod Blagojevich.
HIV-infected organs are currently disposed of so they won't be transplanted.
Some doctors say those organs can help prolong the lives of HIV patients, who are living longer because of medical advances.
Illinois would still have to work with the organization that coordinates the nation's organ transplant system to change rules that prohibit such procedures.
Representative Larry McKeon is HIV-positive. The Chicago Democrat developed the bill after his doctor told him HIV-infected organs are useful for other patients.