Donation leave policy (California): Free template

Donation leave policy (California): Free template

Donation leave policy (California)

In California, a donation leave policy provides businesses with guidelines for granting employees time off to participate in donation activities, such as donating blood, organs, or bone marrow. This policy ensures employees are supported in their charitable efforts while complying with California labor laws, including the Michelle Maykin Memorial Donation Protection Act.

This policy outlines eligibility, leave duration, and procedures for requesting donation leave. By implementing this policy, California businesses can foster goodwill and support employee contributions to important causes.

How to use this donation leave policy (California)

  • Define eligibility: Specify which employees qualify for donation leave and the types of donations covered under the policy.
  • Set leave duration: Clearly state the amount of paid or unpaid leave provided, aligning with California laws, such as 5 business days for organ donation and up to 5 days for bone marrow donation.
  • Outline request procedures: Provide instructions for employees to request leave, including notice requirements and any documentation needed, such as medical certifications.
  • Address scheduling: Ensure leave is coordinated to minimize disruptions to business operations while accommodating employee needs.
  • Communicate expectations: Clarify the process for returning to work and any required follow-up documentation.

Benefits of using this donation leave policy (California)

This policy offers several advantages for California businesses:

  • Supports compliance: Reflects California laws governing donation leave, such as the Michelle Maykin Memorial Donation Protection Act.
  • Promotes employee well-being: Encourages employees to engage in meaningful charitable activities with the business’s support.
  • Enhances morale: Demonstrates the business’s commitment to social responsibility and employee health.
  • Reduces risks: Provides clear procedures to avoid disputes or misunderstandings related to donation leave.
  • Encourages accountability: Ensures consistency in how donation leave requests are managed and documented.

Tips for using this donation leave policy (California)

  • Reflect California-specific laws: Ensure the policy aligns with state requirements for organ, blood, and bone marrow donation leave.
  • Train managers: Provide guidance on handling donation leave requests and coordinating schedules to minimize disruptions.
  • Use clear communication: Regularly inform employees of their rights and the procedures for requesting donation leave.
  • Document leave requests: Maintain records of donation leave requests and approvals to ensure transparency and compliance.
  • Review regularly: Update the policy to reflect changes in California laws or employee needs.

Q: How does this policy benefit the business?

A: This policy supports compliance with California laws, promotes employee engagement in charitable activities, and fosters goodwill.

Q: What types of donations are covered under this policy?

A: The policy typically covers blood, bone marrow, and organ donations as outlined in California’s donation leave laws.

Q: How does this policy support compliance with California laws?

A: The policy reflects the requirements of the Michelle Maykin Memorial Donation Protection Act, supporting lawful and fair management of donation leave.

Q: What steps should employees take to request donation leave?

A: Employees should submit a request to their manager or HR with sufficient notice and provide any required documentation, such as medical certification.

Q: How can the business manage operational needs during donation leave?

A: The business can coordinate schedules, reassign tasks temporarily, or hire temporary support to maintain productivity.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.