What is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that was created in 1993 in order to provide employees with the opportunity to balance their work and family life. FMLA provides employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid job-protected leave in a 12-month period for a number of reasons, including a serious health condition of the employee or an immediate family member, the birth or adoption of a child, and/or providing care for a domestic partner, spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition. In addition to paid leave, FMLA provides job security, because it requires employers to restore an employee to the same or an equivalent position when they return from leave. It applies to most employers with 50 or more employees, and protects both part-time and full-time employees. In California, employees are further protected by the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) and the New Parent Leave Act (NPLA). CFRA provides up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for a number of reasons, including the birth or adoption of a child, the serious health condition of a child, parent, or spouse, and/or to care for a domestic partner or parent. The NPLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for parents of a newborn or adopted or foster child. In conclusion, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that provides employees with the ability to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid job-protected leave in a 12-month period. In California, employees are additionally protected by the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) and the New Parent Leave Act (NPLA).
Related FAQs
Are employees entitled to job-protected leave for the death of a family member?Does the FMLA require employers to hold a job for an employee on FMLA leave?
Can my employer deny my request for FMLA leave?
Does the FMLA guarantee job protection for an employee returning from active military service?
What is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?
Is an employee required to give advance notice if they will be taking FMLA leave?
Can I take FMLA leave during my spouse's active duty tour?
Does the FMLA guarantee job protection if an employee needs to care for an ailing family member?
Are there any exemptions to FMLA employee eligibility?
Does the FMLA cover parental leave?
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