Alton_National_CemeteryAs Memorial Day weekend arrives, I wanted to take a minute to remember those who have sacrificed themselves so that we may have many of the freedoms we take for granted today, such as the ability to write whatever we want on the internet.  In addition, I want to thank all the military spouses and families out there who have more strength than many of us know or can even appreciate.  So, we remember, and thank you.

This leads me to blog today about time off for military service, and time off to care for servicemembers in Minnesota.  Specifically, the FMLA was amended in 2008 to add two military family leave entitlements – (1) qualifying exigency leave; and (2) military caregiver leave.  I’ll touch briefly on both below.   As for my Friday Fun Fact…here it is, compliments of the History Channel: Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day in 1868 (to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers), and didn’t become an official federal holiday until 1971.

Who Is A “Covered Servicemember”?

A “covered servicemember” is someone who is: (1) a current member of the Armed Forces (including National Guard or Reserves); or (2) a veteran who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable at any time during the 5 year period prior to the first date the eligible employee takes FMLA leave to care for the veteran.Tammy_Duckworth_wheelchair

Who Is Eligible For Leave?

To be eligible for one of these FMLA military leaves, the employee must have worked for a covered employer (private company with 50 or more employees) for 12 months and at least 1,250 hours in the 12 month period prior to the leave.  Further, that employee must work at a location where the covered employer has at least 50 or more employees within 75 miles of the employee’s worksite.

FMLA “Qualifying Exigency” Leave

The FMLA provides that when a spouse, parent, son or daughter who is a military member is deployed (or notified of impending deployment to a foreign country), an eligible employee may be entitled to an unpaid “qualifying exigency leave”.  
Continue Reading Time Off For Military Caregiver Leave or Exigency Leave