Congress Extends FMLA to Military Families
Congress has expanded the Family and Medical Leave Act to include leave for employees who care for wounded soldiers and to immediate family of reservists who are called to active duty.
The provision — the first expansion of the FMLA since its enactment in 1993 — was included as part of the military spending bill approved by Congress. President Bush is not expected to veto the measure.
Under the new legislation, the spouse, child, parent and next of kin would be entitled to 26 weeks of unpaid leave to care for wounded military personnel. In addition, immediate family members of reservists or members of the National Guard would be entitled to 12 weeks of FMLA leave.
