The Donda West Law

Hey Mama...

The Donda West law, which was introduced in September, has officially become a California state law.

The law, inspired by the late mother of rapper Kanye West, makes health checks and a written clearance mandatory before being allowed to undergo plastic surgery in the state of California.

Nearly two years ago in November 2007, Donda West passed away at the age of 58 following cosmetic surgery. The retired professor underwent surgery without a medical clearance. Her preexisting coronary artery disease and multiple postoperative factors following surgery are what led to the fatal outcome.

"Sometimes patients may think they are well enough for cosmetic surgery, but in reality are not," Assemblywoman Wilmer Amina Carter said. "This bill will potentially save lives."

Carter was contacted by Donda West's niece, Yolanda Anderson, to propose the bill in February 2008. The bill was approved by the Senate, but vetoed by the Governor, due to an overwhelming amount of bills.

Yolanda was determined to get the law passed, though. The Donda West Law Assembly Bill 1116 was re-submitted in February and as of October 12, 2009, it is now a law.