Sen. Bates introduces SB 1025, giving tax credits to organizations sponsoring blood drives

SACRAMENTO – Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) introduced SB 1025 which grants tax credits to companies and organizations that sponsor blood drives. During a time when the nation is experiencing a blood shortage, SB 1025 intends to boost blood donations by encouraging the hosting of blood drives. Senator Bates issued the following statement:

“Approximately 6.8 million people in the U.S. donate blood every year; however, the continued impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and the current business environment have made it difficult for some organizations to support ongoing blood drive sponsorships. There simply aren’t enough blood drives to meet the demand.”

SB 1025 is sponsored by the Blood Centers of California, an alliance of eleven community and hospital based blood centers. Blood centers have experienced significant declines in new donors and overall blood donations since the start of the pandemic. Covid-19 precautions forced many community blood drives to be canceled, further limiting donation opportunities.

“Maintaining a sufficient blood supply is a community effort,” said Susan Noone, Regional Director of Vitalant and President of BCC. “SB 1025 will help to recognize and appreciate the community members that host blood drives and provide an opportunity for generous donors to give the gift of life.”

Recognizing the urgent need to address the blood shortage, Assemblymember Jim Cooper (D-Elk Grove) signed on to SB 1025 as a principal co-author. “I am proud to be a joint author of SB 1025,” said Assemblymember Jim Cooper. “Blood donations are a critical tool for saving lives. This bill will make a real impact, allowing businesses the opportunity to receive tax credits for sponsoring much-needed blood drives; helping blood banks recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.”

“It’s my hope SB 1025 will play a vital role in alleviating the blood shortage,” said Bates. “An ample blood supply ensures patients have access to lifesaving treatments and operations.”