House Bill No. 338, introduced by Representative Hilferty, amends existing law to provide paid leave for employees who donate living organs, in addition to the current provisions for bone marrow donations. The bill specifies that employers must grant up to 40 hours of paid leave for employees undergoing medical procedures to donate either bone marrow or a living organ, such as a kidney or part of a liver, lung, pancreas, or intestines. Employers are allowed to require verification from a physician regarding the purpose and duration of the leave. Importantly, if an employee is determined not to qualify as a donor after leave has been granted, that leave will not be forfeited.

The bill also clarifies that employers are not restricted from providing additional leave for organ donations beyond what is mandated by this law. It maintains that employees retain their rights concerning other employment benefits. The amendments ensure that the provisions for living organ donations align with those already established for bone marrow donations, thereby expanding the support for employees who contribute to life-saving medical procedures.

Statutes affected:
HB338 Original: 40:4(B)
HB338 Engrossed: 40:4(B)