DOL Proposes New Family and Medical Leave Act Regulations

On February 11, 2008, the Department of Labor (DOL) published proposed regulations regarding the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).  The proposed regulations leave many aspects of the 1995 regulations in place, while changing and clarifying numerous other parts.  Some of the most important changes are described below These are proposals, not new rules, so if you like or dislike any of the proposals below, “vote” on them now by sending your input to the DOL.  They even accept input by email (see below), making this the easiest “vote” you’ll ever cast; your deadline is April 11.

ADA Restoration Act Threatens Employers and People with More Significant Disabilities

Employer advocates warned of broad language and potential negative consequences from the “Americans with Disabilities Act Restoration Act” (ADA-RA). Employers must become educated and respond quickly to this legislation: It has enough co-sponsors to pass the House (HR 3195) and received supportive hearings on Nov. 15 by the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (S 1881).