Understanding and Administering FMLA 2006 Training Class

Course ID: 20876

Understanding and Administering FMLA 2006 Training Seminar

Practical, Everyday Applications of FMLA for Your Workplace
It's been over a decade since the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 was passed by Congress. Unfortunately, the confusion that surrounded the law in the beginning has only deepened through the years. Court decisions and opinions by the Department of Labor (DOL) - which issues the operational regulations - have muddied the waters and made human resources and personnel unsure about what to do.

Some make mistakes that cost their organizations plenty. Others stick their heads in the sand and hope for the best. Still others endure sleepless nights and worry constantly because they know the stakes are extremely high and the opportunities for error practically endless.

Make no mistake: FMLA does NOT stand for "Friendly Medical Leave Act." In fact, it's anything but.

Consider what these cases taught ...

Saroli vs. Automation & Modular Components, Inc. - It is extremely costly to only grudgingly honor an employee's right to leave and to maintain a corporate culture that treads on employees' rights.
Smith vs. K&F Industries, Inc. - There ARE circumstances in which organizations with fewer than 15 employees can be liable under FMLA.
Spangler vs. Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines - Even a conversational, casual reference to a recurring medical condition can constitute a request for FMLA leave.

These examples go on and on - and that's why HR personnel and managers can't afford to assume that what they think they know about FMLA is true. Attend this seminar and get the practical, applied facts that will keep your company out of trouble.

Seminar Overview

How the FMLA is interpreted by today's courts - what the law really says.

The best way to coordinate your FMLA policy with other leave policies, such as vacation and sick leave to avoid confusing overlap.

Choices you can make about FMLA now that will prevent problems in the future.

How FMLA can work to your advantage, how it can quickly turn against you, and how it can get downright brutal if you're not careful!

What to do about employees who abuse FMLA.

Employers beware: Recent court cases tell us to act with caution when it comes to FMLA.

The latest developments in FMLA regulations - what they are and how they affect you.

The most common misunderstandings about FMLA, and how they can get you into trouble.

Paperwork and the FMLA - the unusual and specific ways it must be completed.

What to do when you think an employee is "faking it."

The terrible triangle: guidelines for untangling leave and disability issues that involve FMLA, ADA, and workers' compensation.

How to resolve dilemmas regarding pregnancy and maternity/paternity leave.