Illinois Senator Ram Villivalam pushing for leave for organ donors

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Illinois State Senator Ram Villivalam, the only Indian-American in the Upper House, is moving legislation  to give employees up to ten days of paid leave for serving as an organ donor.

In a press release April 28, 2023, Villivalam indicated the measure was aimed at ensuring “that saving a life does not come at the cost of employment.”

“Our state is made up of amazing people who are incredibly giving and care deeply for their neighbors,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “When someone donates an organ to help a person in need, it is important they are able to take earned leave time off to recuperate.”

House Bill 3516 changes the Employee Blood Donation Leave Act to the Employee Blood and Organ Donation Leave Act to allow employees to take up to ten days of paid leave in any 12-month period to serve as an organ donor.

The paid leave would apply to employees of any unit of local government, board of election commissioners, or private employer in Illinois with 51 or more employees.

“There is nothing more important than saving a life,” said Villivalam. “We are grateful for our residents who donate organs to help save lives and this legislation helps ensure their ability to do so.”

House Bill 3516 passed through the Senate Labor Committee Wednesday, April 26, and heads to the floor for further deliberation.