The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal labor law that gives employees certain rights. Under the FMLA, eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for family or medical issues without fear of losing their job or other retaliation. However, it’s essential to know whether you’re eligible for FMLA rights and protections.
If you want to take unpaid leave as an employee, or if you believe that you have been retaliated against as a result of taking unpaid leave, it is important that you understand your rights. By doing so, you will be able to take the appropriate action to stand up for yourself.
Am I eligible for FMLA protections?
Unfortunately, simply being employed does not automatically entitle you to protections under the FMLA. You need to work for a company that currently employs a minimum of 50 employees within 75 miles of your workplace. In order to benefit from the FMLA, you must have been employed with the company for at least 12 months. In your last 12 months at the company, you must have worked a minimum of 1,250 hours.
If I am eligible, when can I legitimately take FMLA leave?
You can only take FMLA leave in certain situations. These include matters regarding family or medical care. Examples of legitimate FMLA leave include taking time off to care for your newborn child or to care for an elderly parent.
If you are concerned about your eligibility for FMLA leave, it is important to research the matter further. If you believe that your FMLA rights have been violated, it’s wise to seek legal guidance.
