Pregnancy and parental leave, FMLA

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Pregnancy and parental leave, FMLA

The following information is about the state Pregnancy and Parental Leave Act and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

Employees may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave upon the birth or adoption of their child when they:

work for a company with 21 or more employees at one site;
worked at least half time for 12 months; and
have been with the company for at least 12 months (not necessarily consecutive).

When does the parental leave start?

The leave must be taken within 12 months of the birth or adoption.
Employees must request the leave from their employer.
Employees can choose when the leave will begin.
Employers can adopt reasonable policies about when requests for leave must be made.

Frequently asked questions

Can my pregnancy or parental leave count against my paid leave?

Yes, if you have paid leave, including sick leave or paid vacation, the amount of parental leave can be reduced so the total leave (parental plus paid leave) is not more than 12 weeks.

Can my pregnancy or parental leave count against FMLA leave?

Yes, you only have a right to 12 weeks of leave total for birth or adoption of a child and any pregnancy-related leave, even if you qualify for both FMLA and pregnancy or parental leave. The federal Family Medical Leave Act FMLA requires employers to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in connection with the birth or adoption of a child or for a serious health condition. You may be entitled to additional leave under FMLA for a nonpregnancy-related serious health condition. If you have questions about FMLA, contact the U.S. Department of Labor at 612-370-3341 or dol.gov/whd/fmla.

Does my employer have to continue my benefits during the leave?

Yes, your employer-provided health insurance must be continued during pregnancy and parental leave. You may be asked to pay for this coverage.

Do I get my job back when I return from leave?

Yes, your employer cannot retaliate against you for requesting or taking a leave. You are entitled to employment in your former position or one with comparable duties, hours and pay. You are also entitled to the same benefits and seniority you had before the leave. You may return to part-time work during the leave without forfeiting the right to return to full-time work at the end of the leave.

Note: If you are a member of the U.S. armed services, you may have additional leave rights under the federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). For information about these rights, call the U.S. Department of Labor at 612-370-3341.