What is the minimum hours required for approval under Federal FMLA?

The minimum requirement for approval under the Federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) stipulates that an employee must have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12 months preceding the leave. This requirement ensures that the employee has a sufficient work history with the employer and qualifies for job-protected leave for specific family and medical reasons. The FMLA is designed to provide eligible employees with the right to take unpaid, job-protected leave while maintaining their health benefits during the leave period.

This threshold is crucial because it helps employers determine the eligibility of their employees for the benefits provided under the FMLA, which include leave for serious health conditions, the birth of a child, or the care of a family member with a serious health condition. Meeting this specific hourly requirement ensures that only those who have demonstrated a significant attachment to the workforce are afforded the protections of the FMLA.