German lawmakers are considering whether to tackle a shortage of donor organs with a reform that would make most people potential donors unless they object.

In a debate on an issue that cuts across party lines, parliament will vote Thursday on rival proposals to address the problem.

At present, doctors in Germany can transplant organs only from people who actively declare their willingness, for example by carrying a donor card or making a living will. More than 1,000 people in the country of 83 million die each year while waiting for transplants.