Family Medical Leave Act Poster and Employer Guide

The Department of Labor recently released an updated poster and a new Employer's Guide about the Family and Medical Leave Act. The updated poster is designed to be easier to read and understood by employees. It is not a requirement to post the updated poster, but it is recommended so employees have a clear understanding of their FMLA rights.

The new Guide is entitled "Employer's Guide to the Family and Medical Leave Act,".  The Guide covers the subjects of:

• Covered Employers under the FMLA and their General Notice Requirements;
• When an Employee Needs FMLA Leave;
• Qualifying Reasons for Leave;
• The Certification Process;
• Military Family Leave;
• Issues During an Employee's FMLA Leave; and
• FMLA Prohibitions.

It should be understood that this Guide expresses the opinion of the DOL. While it may be a good starting point for employers, it is not necessarily the final word on a given matter. A court could disagree with the DOL's interpretation. Employers should contact legal counsel with any questions concerning FMLA and its application and interpretation in the workplace.