Provides for paid leave for a state employee who donates an organ and duration of the leave is dependent on the type of donation and notice should be provided to the employer at least thirty (30) days prior to the leave.

Rhode Island Organ Donation Leave Act – Plain English Summary

This bill would give Rhode Island state government employees paid time off if they choose to donate an organ to someone in need. Currently, state workers who want to be living organ donors may have to use their own sick or vacation time to recover from the surgery. This legislation would create a separate category of paid leave specifically for organ donation, so employees wouldn't have to sacrifice their existing leave benefits.

The amount of paid leave a state employee would receive depends on what type of organ or tissue they are donating, as different donations require different recovery times. For example, donating a kidney typically requires a longer recovery than donating a portion of bone marrow. Employees would also be required to give their employer at least 30 days' advance notice before taking this leave, allowing state agencies to plan for the worker's absence.

This bill directly affects Rhode Island state government employees who are considering becoming living organ donors. It is designed to remove a potential financial barrier — the fear of losing pay or depleting personal leave — that might discourage someone from donating. It does not appear to apply to private sector employees. The bill has been referred to the Senate Labor and Gaming Committee, where it is scheduled for a hearing and further consideration.