FMLA Insights - Guidance & Solutions for Employers

When an employee remains absent even after her doctor provides a medical certification confirming that she can return to work, it might seem reasonable for an employer to deny the employee any further FMLA leave and, if the employee fails to return, to terminate her employment. However, if the employer has not specifically informed the employee of the need to provide a medical certification in writing, relying on the "negative certification" may violate the FMLA, according to a recent decision of the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. Branham v. Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc.... More

Q: An employee has asked for intermittent FMLA leave due to a serious health condition. He has turned in a medical certification, but the doctor who signed it is his general practitioner, not a specialist in the condition for which he is seeking leave. Can I ask for a second opinion? A: Yes, but be sure you understand the procedure.... More

Two recent federal appeals court decisions highlight the importance of providing employees with clear, accurate information about their FMLA rights. First, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit recently held in Kobus v. The College of St. Scholastica, Inc. that a painter employed by the college could not prevail on his FMLA claims because he failed to return a completed medical certification form confirming that he had a serious medical condition. The court focused on the fact that the college's policies and the plaintiff's supervisor clearly advised the plaintiff of the certification requirement.  On the other hand, the U.S. Court of... More