Family & Medical Leave Act In Maryland

The following article will cover:

• The basics of FMLA, including its purpose and eligibility criteria for Maryland employees, and the reasons for which an employee can take FMLA leave.
• How FMLA protects an employee’s job during the leave period, preventing termination under normal circumstances.
• The responsibilities of employees during their FMLA leave and seeking legal assistance if facing unfair discrimination or punishment for taking FMLA leave.

What Is FMLA? What Are Covered Reasons For Maryland Employees To Take FMLA Leave?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a law designed to help you balance work and family responsibilities by providing you with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year while ensuring the continuation of group health benefits. The FMLA applies to public agencies, public and private elementary and secondary schools, and companies with 50 or more employees.

To be eligible for this leave, you must have been employed with your employer for at least 12 months, have worked at least 1,250 hours during those 12 months, and work at a location where the company employs 50 or more employees within 75 miles.

You can take FMLA leave for any of the following reasons:

• The birth and care of your newborn child
• The placement of a child with you for adoption or foster care
• The care for an immediate family member (spouse, child, or parent) with a serious health condition
• If you are unable to work due to a serious health condition

Please note that time taken off due to pregnancy complications can count towards the 12 weeks of family and medical leave.

Will FMLA Protect Me From Losing My Job?

The FMLA is designed to protect your job during your leave period. Under normal circumstances, your employer cannot terminate your employment while you are on FMLA leave.

What Are Some Of The Responsibilities That Employees Have During Their FMLA Leave?

During your FMLA leave, you are expected to fulfill certain responsibilities such as providing necessary medical documentation or FMLA certifications to your employer’s Human Resources department or to the representative handling leave matters.

I Am Being Unfairly Discriminated Against And Punished By My Maryland Employer For Taking FMLA Leave. What Can I Do?

If you believe you’re being unfairly targeted or punished for taking FMLA leave, it would be advisable to contact an attorney. They can help investigate whether an FMLA interference or retaliation claim exists in your situation.

For more information on Family & Medical Leave Act In Maryland, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (301) 753-3232 today.