Dealing successfully with employees on leaves of absence is a challenge for employers.   HR practitioners must have the ability to educate their supervisors and employees about employer obligations.

Laws governing workplace leaves are complicated. It is imperative that employers have a clear understanding and the breadth of knowledge to identify which law(s) that a leave might fall under, the ability to designate leaves to the correct time off, and the ability to respond promptly and appropriately.

The Americans With Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the California Family Rights Act, the Fair Employment and Housing Act and the Workers’ Compensation Act generate a sometimes confusing labyrinth of employer obligations and employee rights.

Some leaves are relativley new, such as the Military Family Leave.  Other leaves, such as FMLA have been a part of American business for years.  California has additional laws that work in some cases concurrently with Federal laws and in other cases stand alone.

It is critical that employers train their supervisors in the basics of the leave laws and how to react when they get the knowledge that one of their works may be eligible.