Smart Workplaces: Understanding the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) (ST-0158)

There are times when life situations demand attention and people must take time away from work. An individual may be diagnosed with a serious health condition, welcome a new child into the family, or become a caregiver for a family member, so it is good to know what options are available if it becomes necessary to take a leave of absence.

 

The Family Medical Act (FMLA) allows employees take reasonable unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons so they can attend to the needs of family while also balancing work responsibilities. The purpose of FMLA is to accommodate the needs of employers and employees while minimizing the potential for employment discrimination on the basis of gender, and promoting equal opportunity employment for men and women.