It’s a new year, and many people these days are focusing on their health, especially given that many illnesses spread in the winter. Indiana workers should know that under Indiana law, employers are not required to provide workers with sick leave, either paid or unpaid. However, employers must still provide unpaid sick leave as dictated under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
What type of leave is permitted under the FMLA?
Per the FMLA, if an employer has 50 or more workers, they must provide qualifying workers with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for the following reasons. One is for the birth of the worker’s child, or placement for adoption or foster care of a child. Another is for the care of an immediate family member who has a serious medical condition. Finally, a person may take FMLA leave if they have a serious medical condition.
Who qualifies for FMLA leave?
In order to qualify for FMLA you must meet the following requirements. First, you must have been employed with your employer for a minimum of 12 months, although the work need not be consecutive. Finally, you must have worked for a minimum of 1,250 hours during the 12 months immediately prior to the date you start your FMLA leave.
FMLA can give you job security during a challenging time
Being seriously ill or injured, caring for a loved one with a serious medical condition or caring for a newborn or newly adopted child can be challenging. Workers in Indianapolis should not have to fear losing their job during these times. Fortunately, federal law recognizes this and provides qualifying workers with temporary protections that can allow them to keep their job.
