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Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-06) and John Moolenaar’s (MI-02) bipartisan Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Product Safety Act today was passed by the House of Representatives. The legislation would address and prevent the spread of tuberculosis in human cell and tissue products by requiring the Department of Health and Human Services to make reforms regarding the screening of tissue donation materials, conduct education campaigns, and impose penalties on tissue providers who fail to prevent Tuberculosis outbreaks.

Dingell and Moolenaar, along with Senators Stabenow and Peters, introduced the bill in response to the passing of Shandra Eisenga, of Marion, last summer due to complications from tuberculosis infection. Eisenga contracted TB after receiving a bone graft in April 2023 using a tissue donation from an infected donor. Shandra was one of 36 patients in seven states to contract TB from a tissue donation originating from this donor, resulting in two deaths.

“Shandra Eisenga’s death was a preventable tragedy, and we owe it to Shandra, her family, and every other patient who has been affected by contaminated bone grafts to ensure we’re doing everything possible to prevent future cases like this,” said Dingell. “I am thankful our bill passed the House with bipartisan support. As someone who had multiple bone grafts after osteomyelitis I was never warned about the dangers. We must do more to educate patients, make sure they are aware of the risks of human cell and tissue product transplants, and implement additional safeguards to protect patients from the dangers of these infections.”

“I am grateful my legislation to honor Shandra’s legacy was passed by the House. This bill will help prevent TB infections from bone grafts and save families from experiencing the pain and sadness that Shandra’s family has tragically endured. My bipartisan bill accomplishes this by ensuring the FDA requires screening for TB and holds tissue suppliers responsible for infections they spread,” said Moolenaar.

"Nothing can erase the heartbreak of my mother's passing, but she would be proud that we have helped make a positive difference in her name. I am so thankful the House approved this bill today so no family has to go through an experience like this," said Amber Herlein, Shandra's daughter.

Dingell spoke on the House floor today in support of the legislation. View her remarks here.