What Are the State and Federal Leave Laws?
The FMLA, a federal law, entitles eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave with job protection. Bakersfield employees using family and medical leave have additional protection from wrongful termination under the Family Rights Act (CFRA), found in Gov. Code § 12945.2. This law applies to many smaller employers and covers more family situations. Pregnancy Disability Leave under Gov. Code § 12945 can add even more time for certain employees.
Employers must return an employee to the same or a similar position once leave ends. They cannot punish or fire someone for asking about the FMLA or CFRA leave, or for taking it. Employers are often guilty of wrongful termination in workplaces that depend on steady staffing, including hospitals, farms, warehouses, and public offices.
Deadlines are strict. You must file a federal FMLA claim within two years, or three if the violation was intentional. CFRA and Fair Employment and Housing Act claims typically begin with a complaint to the Civil Rights Department within three years of the event. Other laws, such as those found in Labor Code § 1102.5, may apply if the termination follows a workplace complaint.
Employees seeking assistance with FMLA leave wrongful termination often require guidance on applicable laws, evidence collection, and case progression.
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