MARQUETTE -- There is good news for those on the organ donor waiting list as the number of those registered on the Michigan Donor Registry has risen significantly since last year.

Those registering to be organ donors has risen dramatically in Michigan, even here in the U.P.

Officials say the reason for this jump is Secretary of State Johnson's recent mandate for SoS branch workers to ask drivers to register while renewing their license.

The number of donors has risen in almost every county across the U.P. with some counties such as Marquette, Gogebic and Mackinac doubling their numbers.

"It makes it much easier for the family members at the time the decision has been made by the individual already, and when the family is reminded of that, it's one less decision the family is forced to make at an already bad time," said Robert Chabie of the Michigan Eye Bank.

You can register to become a donor on several websites, including the state's website.