FMLA Basics

The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) establishes a minimum labor standard which allows employees to take leave for specified reasons relating to family obligations without jeopardizing their employment. FMLA does not supersede any state or local law which provides more generous family or medical leave protection, nor does it affect an employer's obligation to provide greater leave rights under a collective bargaining agreement or employment benefit plan. The Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department's Employment Standards Administration is responsible for administering and enforcing the Act.