Does the FMLA provide job protection for people affected by domestic violence?
Yes, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides job protection for people affected by domestic violence in Washington. Under the FMLA, employees in Washington are allowed to take up to twelve weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year to handle matters related to domestic violence. This includes taking time off to obtain medical attention and counseling, to seek legal help, to obtain housing, and to participate in other safety planning activities. The FMLA also protects employees from being discriminated against or terminated due to the use of their FMLA-protected leave. Employers in Washington must restore employees to the same or equivalent positions when they return to work after taking FMLA-protected leave. Employers are also prohibited from retaliating against employees who take FMLA-protected leave. Finally, the FMLA further protects employees in Washington from being required to use other forms of paid leave, such as vacation or sick days, as part of their FMLA-protected leave. Employees may use the leaves in the order that is most appropriate for the situation without penalty. This means that employees are not required to use their paid leave before receiving protection from the FMLA.
Related FAQs
Is an employee eligible for FMLA leave if they need to care for a parent with a serious health condition?Is an employee responsible for any costs associated with returning to work after FMLA leave?
Can employers require a doctor's note to verify an employee's FMLA leave?
Can I take FMLA leave to care for a family member if the family member is not the employee's parent, spouse, or child?
Am I required to give my employer notice before taking FMLA leave?
If I am already out on FMLA leave, can I take additional FMLA leave?
Does the FMLA protect an employee's benefits if the employee's job is eliminated?
Can I take FMLA leave for a family member's injury, illness, or disability?
Does the FMLA protect employees from being fired while on FMLA leave?
Does the FMLA cover parental leave?
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