Family Medical Leave Act - NJCU :: Department of Human Resources

In accordance with the 1993 Family Medical Leave Act, New Jersey City University allows you to take 12 weeks of unpaid leave from your job for a serious illness, the serious illness of a family member, or for the birth or adoption of a child. During this time your job and health benefits will be protected. The 12 weeks are per calendar year, and do not have to be taken consecutively.

A FMLA leave of absence must have the supervisor’s recommendation and approval of the Department Head/Dean and approval of the Vice President. Those seeking a leave of absence must contact the Human Resources Department for counseling in preparation of the application and to review the policy, use of sick and vacation time, and continuation of benefits.

Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an FMLA leave an employee must:
1. Be employed at the University for at least 12 months
2. Have worked at least 1,250 hours in the previous 12 months

What Qualifies as an FMLA leave?
An FMLA leave can be granted for:
1. The birth, adoption or foster care placement of a child.
2. A serious health condition that prevents the employee from doing the essential functions of his or her job.
3. To care for a child, spouse, or parent with a serious health condition.

NJCU’S Application Process
Employees must give 30 days notice of intent to take leave when it is known in advance. For unforeseen reasons as much notice possible. The Leave of Absence request form must be completed and returned to the Human Resources department. A physician certification must be submitted for all FMLA leaves including extension of leaves. The physician certification must include prognosis, duration and an expected return to work date.

FMLA will be applied to all leave time (sick, vacation, administrative) used for serious health conditions that exceeds five (5) consecutive days in duration up to and including the allowed 12 weeks. Once you have exhausted your sick time you will then be eligible for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). Human Resources will notify you when you will be eligible to apply for TDI as well as supply you with the necessary forms to apply. Please note that TDI is a benefit offered to you by the State of New Jersey not New Jersey City University, therefore they are operated as separate entities.

Your FMLA leave will begin on the first date of your approved leave, paid or unpaid. If you are unable to return to work on the approved date, you must notify Human Resources two weeks in advance. An extension of leave must be approved by your supervisor, department head/Dean and the Vice President.

Additional medical verification must be submitted.

Upon your return to work you must report to the Human Resources department to ensure the processing of all return from leave forms.

*Remember it is imperative that you have a consultation with the Human Resources Department regarding leave of absence, so that all policies can be explained in full detail. If you cannot take care of this due to your own unforeseen serious illness, please authorize someone to do this on your behalf.