What types of family members are covered by the FMLA?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides certain family members with the right to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specific family and medical reasons. Broadly speaking, the FMLA covers a wide range of family members including parents, spouses, children, and in-laws. Under the FMLA, parents can take leave to care for their children, including birth, adoption, or foster care of a child. A spouse can take leave to care for an ill family member or their own serious health condition, as well as for the birth or adoption of a child. A child can also take leave to care for a parent with a serious health condition. In addition, the definition of a “parent” also includes any individual related by blood or affinity whose close association with the employee is the equivalent of a family relationship and would be covered under the FMLA. In-laws are also protected under the FMLA. An employee can take leave to care for a parent-in-law who has a serious health condition or to care for a spouse who is a member of the armed forces on active duty. In certain circumstances, an employee can also take leave to care for a grandparent, grandchild, or sibling who has a serious health condition. Overall, the FMLA provides broad coverage for a variety of family members, allowing an employee to take time off to care for them without fear of job loss or other reprisal.

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What types of family members are covered by the FMLA?

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