This report is intended to familiarize the reader with the current legislation concerning state definitions of death, the pertinent judicial decisions concerning termination of life support and the current status of medical/ethical committees. However, it is of paramount importance to all health care personnel to become involved in the resolution of these problems. Current information regarding legal clarity to these issues leaves much to be desired. Unless we wish major decisions that will affect us all to be decided by others, it is strongly suggested that we become directly involved in this process and accept the challenge and the opportunity to influence major legal, ethical, and medical decisions.