What is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that provides job-protected leave for eligible employees who need to take time off work for medical or family reasons. It applies to most Washington employers, regardless of size. The FMLA gives employees the right to take unpaid, job-protected leave for up to 12 weeks in any 12-month period. Time off can be taken for a variety of reasons, including a serious health condition, the birth or adoption of a child, or to care for a family member with a serious health condition. The FMLA also guarantees the continuation of certain benefits during the period of leave. Employers must maintain employees’ group health insurance coverage so that their coverage does not lapse during the period of unpaid leave. Furthermore, employees have the right to return to the same position or an equivalent position upon returning to work. It is important for Washington employers to understand disability planning laws, such as the Family and Medical Leave Act, so that they can provide employees with the protections and benefits that are guaranteed to them under the law. Employers must also be mindful of the regulations and procedures that must be followed when granting FMLA leave requests. Failure to comply with state and federal laws can lead to serious penalties.

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What is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?

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