Illinois workers looking to donate an organ may soon find it easier to do so without risking their jobs. State Senator Christopher Belt has championed legislation that would give eligible part-time workers up to 10 days of paid leave in a year for organ donation. The bill, now passed by the Senate, also requires employers to compensate part-time employees based on their average recent pay. Senator Belt, himself a kidney transplant recipient, emphasized the measure’s importance in removing barriers for potential donors. Supporters say extending these protections to part-time staff could encourage more lifesaving donations across Illinois workplaces.
“This bill is deeply personal to me,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “As someone who received a lifesaving kidney transplant, I know firsthand how life-changing and life-saving these donations are. We should be removing barriers for people who are willing to step forward and give that gift.”
“Organ donors save lives,” said Belt. “Expanding access to leave helps save more lives – plain and simple.”
