Legal Definitions - Family and Medical Leave Act

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a law that was passed in 1993. It allows employees to take time off from work for certain family and medical reasons without losing their job or benefits.

For example, if an employee's child is born or adopted, they can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for the child. If an employee's spouse, child, or parent has a serious health condition, they can also take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for them.

The FMLA applies to businesses with 50 or more employees. This means that if a company has fewer than 50 employees, they are not required to provide FMLA leave to their employees.

The purpose of the FMLA is to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities. It allows them to take time off when they need it without worrying about losing their job or benefits.