Tag: FMLA

Paternity Leave Offers Parental Equality

In the evolving landscape of workplace dynamics, the concept of paternity leave has emerged as a significant point of discussion. While women have historically faced challenges related to maternity leave, the spotlight is now also on the rights and expectations surrounding fathers. As companies strive for inclusivity and equity, understanding the nuances of paternity leave […]

Case Study: Alcoholic Employee Must Meet Employer’s Performance Standards

A recent federal court decision notes that disabled employees or employees with substance abuse problems must comply with an employer’s policies and meet reasonable performance standards. Stephen Drizos, a long-term employee and financial advisor for PNC Investments, suffered from alcoholism. Some years after he began his employment, his alcoholism started to impact his attendance at […]

2 Essential Steps Before Talking to Your Boss About Your Mental Health

You’re tired and stressed and would rather not be at work. Depending on what you’re dealing with, be it family-related issues at home or your own personal mental health needs, if it’s interfering with your day-to-day ability to successfully complete your responsibilities at work, you have several decisions to make. First and foremost is how […]

Paid Family Leave Carries a Strong ROI

Life happens. Not the Instagram #bestlife, in which everything looks in place—your work, your family, and your mental state—but real life, a life comprising a mix of joy and distress, unscheduled and on time, and in and out of control. When I was starting out, there was a work, work, work attitude and a stigma […]

What Tiger Woods’s Foot Can Teach Employers About Managing Employees’ Medical Conditions

Golfing icon Tiger Woods had to withdraw from the Masters tournament in Augusta, Georgia, last week due to a painful foot condition called plantar fasciitis, which causes a stabbing pain in the heel or foot. Video footage shows Woods limping during his third round of play after reaggravating the condition while competing in the tournament. […]

Case Study: Appeals Court Gives Tough Break to Employers on ‘Essential’ Duties

Within the last year, interesting trends have emerged from federal courts on a variety of important ADA issues. Striking somewhat of a balance, courts have tended to be more favorable to employers in deciding which functions of a job are truly “essential.” Conversely, many courts have sided with the employee regarding the sufficiency of the […]

How Changes to the ‘Family Glitch’ Affect Workplace Health Plans

Effective in 2023, a new set of rules will change eligibility requirements for the premium tax credit (PTC) created under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Implemented by the IRS, these new cafeteria plan rules and regulations will now make it easier for an employee’s family members to enroll in subsidized health insurance through an exchange.

Best of Benefits & Compensation 2022

As a recession looms on the horizon of the new year, many HR experts are wondering how to best utilize benefits and compensation packages. 80% of employees say that it’s essential that their companies meet the needs of workers across all stages of life and the diversity spectrum. And, beyond adapting benefits to meet the […]

Qualified Immunity Defense May Apply to FMLA Claims

Government employees and officials are granted “qualified immunity” in suits where they act in good faith and with a reasonable belief that their actions comply with the law. Most frequently, qualified immunity is discussed in connection with cases alleging the use of excessive force by police officers. However, a recent case before the U.S. 8th […]

Discipline Notes Critical in FMLA Claims

One of the things that happens with the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a disconnect between the complex structure of the FMLA and its practical application. Plaintiffs’ attorneys will sometimes assert that they don’t understand how there could be an FMLA issue given that the structure is “so easy to understand.” That’s typically […]