Family and Medical Leave Act

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which became law in 1993, applies to public and private employers. Subject to greater protections than they may have under other federal or state laws or collective bargaining contracts, workers at employers covered by the law are entitled to 12 weeks of unpaid leave during any 12 month period as provided for in their employers' FMLA policies. The key protection available under the FMLA is that employees returning from leaves must be restored to their same or similar positions with equivalent pay and benefits. This entry describes what the law requires, including special provisions for schools.