Family Medical Leave Act
The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for specified family and medical reasons. The 12-month period begins on the first day leave is taken under FMLA. FMLA leave may be paid (if paid leave is available) or unpaid (subject to the Civil Service Rules governing use of such leaves).
When time off under FMLA is granted as unpaid, it is carried as leave without pay. A physician's certification is normally required when leave begins, and a fitness-for-duty statement may be required upon your return to work. Time off under FMLA may be granted for one or more of the following reasons:
- for the birth or placement of a child for adoption or foster care
- to care for an immediate family member (spouse, minor child or parent) with a serious health condition
- to take medical leave when the employee is unable to work because of a serious health condition
Metro continues to pay health insurance premiums during FMLA leave without pay. Employees may choose to pay their premiums in advance, while out on leave, or upon their return to work.