A guide to the Family and Medical Leave Act in Florida

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides essential protections for both employees and employers in Florida. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under this federal law can help you comply effectively.

For employees

Florida workers can get up to 12 weeks of leave a year for specific family or health issues. You must have worked for your company for one year or more and at least 1,250 hours in the last 12 months to get this leave.

During your FMLA leave, your employer must maintain your group health benefits. Upon returning, your employer must reinstate you to your original job or an equivalent position with the same pay, benefits and working conditions.

For employers

As an employer in Florida, you must comply with FMLA if you have 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius. You must provide eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for qualifying reasons. It’s crucial to understand that FMLA leave is job-protected, meaning you must reinstate employees to their original or equivalent position upon their return.

You should also ensure that your employees know their rights under FMLA. Displaying the FMLA poster in a visible location and including FMLA information in your employee handbook can help achieve this. For further information, consult this FMLA guide for employers.

Balancing interests

FMLA tries to meet both worker and company needs. For employees, it provides the security of knowing they can take necessary leave without risking their job. For employers, it helps maintain a stable workforce by ensuring employees return to work after their break.

Ensuring compliance and support

Understanding the FMLA is crucial for both employees and employers in Florida. Consider talking to a lawyer if you have concerns or need to ask questions about your case. We help businesses and individuals with FMLA legal issues. Contact us today for a consultation.