Mussman-Backed Measure to Expand Protections for Organ Donors Signed into Law

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – Legislation backed by state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, which aims to guarantee employment and health care rights to living organ donors was recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

“Every 10 minutes, another person is added to the waiting list for a life-saving donation,” Mussman said. “No person should have to choose between saving a life and keeping their job or health insurance. This bill ensures that any living organ donors are guaranteed basic rights as they go through the incredibly generous journey of organ donation.”

The Mussman-backed House Bill 2847 puts protections in place against employers retaliating against an employee asking for time off to donate an organ or blood. Additionally, health insurance companies cannot decline, limit or raise the cost of insurance due to one’s status as a living donor under this new law. The Secretary of State’s office will also be improving outreach regarding organ donation, and maintain and update an organ and tissue donation registry.

“In the United States, over 113,000 people are waiting for a lifesaving transplant, and I highly encourage anyone able to sign up to become an organ donor to do so,” Mussman said.  “I am thankful that we were able to pass this bill unanimously, and am hoping many more lives are saved because of our efforts.”