Basics of the Family and Medical Leave Act

People in Texas have many different types of jobs and have many different responsibilities and earn varying incomes. However, everyone who works has something in common, they need to be able to physically and mentally perform the job requirements. People get sick or injured from time to time or they have family members who may get sick or injured and need someone to care for them. When this occurs it makes it very difficult to work.

This can create a problem for both the employee and the employer who needs someone to do their job. However, workers who need to leave for medical reasons are guaranteed to have their jobs back in certain circumstances through the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

Who is protected by the FMLA?

Not all employers are covered under this law. Only employers who have 50 employees, public and governmental agencies and schools need to follow FMLA rules. Also, the employee must have worked for an eligible employer for at least 12 months and has worked at least 1,250 hours in the preceding 12 months prior to the leave.

How much leave can be taken?

Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of leave in a 12 month period of time if they have a child, have a serious medical problem making them unable to perform the job tasks, taking care of spouse, child or parent who has a serious health condition, or if an immediate family member is called for active duty.

Many people in Texas experienced health complications or have family members that do. People may not be able to work for a period of time because of that, but it does not mean that they should lose their jobs because of it. The FMLA protects certain employees and ensures they will have the same job that they left when they return from leave. However, not all employers follow the law. Experienced attorneys understand these laws and may be able to help protect people’s rights.