In 1993, the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) was passed federally. This meant that many employees across the United States were able to prioritize the medical needs of themselves or their family over work for the first time, without fearing being fired.
The FMLA is a key source of protection for expectant mothers, those with short-term health issues and workers with elderly parents. However, not all employees are protected by the FMLA. If you have been recently denied FMLA leave, you should make sure to understand the eligibility requirements under the law.
You must have worked for a certain amount of time
In order to be eligible to take FMLA leave, you need to have been employed with the company for at least 12 months. In addition to this, you should also have completed a minimum of 1250 hours of work in the last year.
Your employer must qualify
Smaller or more geographically dispersed companies may not have to adhere to FMLA regulations. As an employee, your company must employ at least 50 the employees within a 75-mile radius of where you work. If they do not, you, unfortunately, will not be eligible for FMLA protection.
You can only take leave under certain circumstances
If you qualify, the FMLA does not allow you to take leave for any reason. You must be taking leave either for your own serious medical condition or to care for your child, spouse or parent.
If you faced negative consequences as the result of taking leave or you are not being granted the leave you believe you deserve, it is important that you take action to stand up for your rights.
