Balancing work and family life can be challenging, especially when health issues arise. Many employees wonder if they can take time off to care for themselves or family members without risking their jobs.
Colorado’s Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) offers a lifeline for employees facing health-related challenges. This blog will explain when you can ask for family medical leave, helping inform your next steps if you are considering legal action.
What are the qualifying reasons for a family medical leave?
This benefit can be available for several important life events and circumstances. These include:
- Health concerns: You can take leave if you are sick or to care for a parent, child or spouse with a medical condition. However, you can take time off work to care for children over 18 if they’re unable to care for themselves due to a certain disability when the leave begins.
- Welcoming a new child: You can take leave for the birth of a child, but you must use it within the first year after the birth. Your employer may also let you take a leave for the placement and care of an adopted or foster child, which must also be used within one year of placement.
- Military-related leave: You can take a break to care for a relative who suffered a severe injury or illness while on active duty. You can also take time off work to care for veterans receiving medical treatment or therapy for a serious service-related injury or illness.
However, it is crucial to note that FMLA does not apply to all Colorado’s employers and employees. It only covers organizations with 50 or more employees, certain elementary and secondary schools and public agencies.
Understanding your rights as an employee
Your health and your family’s well-being should always come first. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to take time off for medical reasons, consider requesting family medical leave.
By knowing your rights and following the proper procedures, you can protect your job while caring for what matters most. If you have uncertainties about your situation, consider seeking advice from a legal professional.