ISLET Act

H.R. 8018 proposes to create a regulatory framework for the transplantation of human cadaveric islets—clusters of cells from the pancreas that produce insulin. The bill would classify these islets as organs under federal law, which could affect how they are procured, preserved, transported, and transplanted to patients with diabetes or pancreatic conditions. Currently, islet transplantation exists in a regulatory gray area, and this legislation would establish clear federal oversight and standards for the procedure. If enacted, the bill could potentially improve access to islet transplantation by providing clearer guidelines for medical centers and transplant organizations, though it may also introduce new regulatory requirements that could affect the cost and availability of the procedure. The bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process, having been introduced in March 2026 and referred to committee for consideration.