In this series, we will explore some of the ways states vary from one another in their employment laws.

Oregon recently amended its paid sick leave law such that employees will be allowed to use available sick leave to donate blood once the amendment goes into effect on January 1, 2026. While Oregon is not the only state to protect employees’ right to take leave to donate blood, bone marrow, and/or organs, Oregon’s law is not necessarily reflective of every state law requiring such leave. In fact, donor leaves vary significantly from state to state.

For example, states differ regarding which employers are covered by donor leave laws. Arkansas (a state not known for its employee-friendly laws) allows protected donor leave to employees regardless of the size of their employer. California,

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