Family and Medical Leave Act

Family and Medical Leave Act Rights and Responsibilities

On August 5, 1993, the interim regulations of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 become effective. The Department of Labor has issued these interim regulations as it prepares and writes the final law which will be promulgated sometime in the next year.

WHAT IS FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE?

Family leave is a benefit provided to corporation employees as a result of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, P.L. 103-3. It is intended to provide employment protection for employees who must take time away from work because of the birth or adoption of a child, or because of their own or a family member’s serious health condition.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

It applies to all employees working at least a minimum of hours per week who have worked at least 1250 hours in the previous 12 months and who have worked for the company for the past 12 months.

WHAT TYPE OF LEAVE IS AVAILABLE?

You may take up to 12 weeks of leave in a 12 month period following the birth or adoption of a child or to care for a sick parent, spouse or child or because of your own serious health condition. The leave may be taken all at once or intermittently as your condition or the condition of your family member requires. Any accrued vacation and sick leave must be exhausted first, then the balance of the leave is provided without pay.

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY JOB WHILE I AM ON FAMILY LEAVE?

You will be reinstated to the same job or one of similar rank and compensation when you return from family leave.