Question:
What is FMLA?

I saw someone post that if you file with you work for FMLA they can not fire you for up to a year for sickness after your surgery. I was just wondering what that is and if it is in every state.    — Michelle Y. (posted on September 23, 2001)

September 23, 2001
FMLA stands for Family Medical Leave Act. It is a federal law that guarantees you leave from work for up to 12 weeks - unpaid - unless your employer opts to offer paid leave. It is guarenteed for certain medical conditions for you, your spouse, child, or parents if you have to take care of them. In some cases, if your employer has short or long term disability - you could probably get that for up to a year or more. But FMLA only guarentees 12 weeks.
   — K T.

September 23, 2001
I have used FMLA many times. I agree with the previous post. One more important fact is it allows you to take care of yourself or family without jeapordy to your job. It sometime runs parallel with short term or long term disability. I hope this helps.
   — Vanessa H.

September 23, 2001
FMLA is a federal law that works as the previous posts state. But, you should be aware that there are certain restrictions. You must be on the job for one year before FMLA applies. Also, the law does not apply for small companies (under 50 employees, I believe).
   — Gina E.