Kane County Adopts Policy Supporting Employee Blood and Organ Donation

When Kane County employee Blair Peters stepped to the microphone during public comment at a recent County Board committee meeting, it was the first time in his decades-long career he had spoken publicly from the podium.  Peters is the County's Technology coordinator and  operates the audio and technical systems during Kane County Board meetings

But for Peters, a liver transplant recipient, this issue was deeply personal. 

The Kane County Board recently adopted a policy allowing employees time off to donate blood or organs. The policy allows eligible full-time and part-time employees who have worked for the county at least six months to take approved leave in accordance with the State’s Employee Blood and Organ Donation Leave Act. 

“I know firsthand there are many medical barriers to being an organ donor,” Peters said. “Those barriers, including employment commitments, can complicate the efforts of people who step forward to try to save a life.” 

He said donating an organ, particularly a portion of a liver, is a major medical commitment, and employment concerns can discourage potential donors. 

Four potential living donors came forward to be tested in Peters' case but none proved to be a match.  He was about six month from death when he ultimately received a lifesaving transplant from an unknown deceased donor.

“I’m very glad to see our elected officials recognized something that could be remedied and help save more lives,” he said. 

“To remove that employment barrier will be lifesaving,” Peters said. 

According to the new policy, employees who donate blood may take up to one hour of leave every 56 days, consistent with medical standards established by organizations such as the American Red Cross, America's Blood Centers and the American Association of Blood Banks. 

Employees who serve as organ donors may take up to 10 days of leave in a 12-month period. Part-time employees will be compensated based on their average daily pay from the previous two months of employment.

To learn more about organ donation go to  https://donatelife.net/donation/donor-registries/national-donate-life-registry/ 

Kane County hosts several blood donations through out the year.  The next one is scheduled for May 6 at the Kane County Government Center.  Learn more at American Red Cross