How does the FMLA protect employees?
The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that protects the right of employees to take unpaid, job-protected leave for certain medical and family reasons. Under the FMLA, an employee in Texas is eligible for up to 12 weeks of leave in a one-year period for certain medical and family reasons, such as the birth or adoption of a child, serious medical conditions, to take care of a family member with a serious medical condition, or to attend to certain military related activities. During FMLA, an employee is entitled to maintain the same group health insurance coverage as if they were actively at work. Furthermore, the employer must guarantee that the employee can return to their job or to an equivalent job with equal pay, benefits, and other employment terms. The FMLA also protects employees from discrimination in the workplace. Employers are not allowed to deny employment, termination, promotion, or other employment opportunities based on the employee taking FMLA leave. Employers are also not allowed to retaliate against an employee for exercising their right to take FMLA leave. In summary, the FMLA protects employees by guaranteeing them the right to take unpaid leave for certain medical or family reasons, and by protecting them from discrimination or retaliation from their employer when taking FMLA leave.
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