Can I take FMLA leave for a family member's medical appointment?
Yes, you may be eligible to take leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for a family member’s medical appointment. In general, the FMLA applies to employers with 50 or more employees, and only allows employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for medical or family care. In California, the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) provides an additional right to employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for specified family and medical reasons, such as to care for a family member’s serious health condition. If you are eligible, you may take up to 12 weeks of FMLA/CFRA leave in any 12 month period to care for a family member’s serious medical condition, including medical appointments. In order to be eligible for FMLA/CFRA leave to care for a family member’s serious health condition, you must be employed with your employer for at least 12 months and have worked for at least 1,250 hours in the 12 months prior to the start of your leave. You must also work at a location with at least 50 employees within 75 miles of the worksite. Keep in mind that your employer may have other requirements for you to take FMLA/CFRA leave, such as giving notice of your leave or providing medical certification. If you have any questions about whether or not FMLA or CFRA applies to you, your employer is a good source of information.
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