Can I take FMLA leave if I am pregnant?
Yes, you can take FMLA leave if you are pregnant in Washington. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that requires employers to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave to eligible employees for certain family and medical reasons. Pregnancy is one of the qualifying reasons an employee may take FMLA leave. Under the FMLA, an eligible employee who is pregnant in Washington is entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for her own serious health condition, prenatal care, and/or parental care for a newborn child. The FMLA also requires that employers maintain the employee’s health insurance coverage during the leave period. In addition, Washington state law provides additional protections for pregnant employees. Pregnant employees in Washington have the right to reasonable accommodations, such as more frequent or longer breaks, time off due to morning sickness, modified job duties, and job reassignment if certain requirements are met. Therefore, an employee who is pregnant in Washington is entitled to the protections of both federal and state law in terms of leave, job protection, and insurance coverage. Pregnant employees should consult their employer and the applicable laws to understand their rights and obligations.
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