Portland State | FAQs | Why is it important to let Human Resources know if employees need time off from work to take care of a new child, or deal with a serious health condition involving their child, spouse or parent, or themselves?

FAQ: Why is it important to let Human Resources know if employees need time off from work to take care of a new child, or deal with a serious health condition involving their child, spouse or parent, or themselves?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Oregon Family Leave Act (OFLA) strengthen employees' rights to take such leave without jeopardizing their jobs and guarantee that the university's contribution to health benefits (FMLA only) is continued. Although employees have sick leave, the university is obligated to give them the added job protection under the federal and state laws. Employees cannot be disciplined for missing work if the time is FMLA or OFLA approved leave. Employees can be disciplined for non-FMLA absences and performance issues unrelated to FMLA or OFLA. Employees who qualify for a protected leave are eligible for up to 12 weeks for certain health reasons (more if OFLA eligible) and up to 26 weeks of leave for the care of a wounded service member if they have not used any in the past 12 months.