California Leave of Absence for Military Service provides protected time off for employees who are members of the military to fulfill their military obligations without fear of losing their job or suffering adverse employment consequences. This type of leave is governed by the California Military and Veterans Code, as well as federal laws such as the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (SERRA). Under California law, an employee who serves in any branch of the military, including the National Guard and Reserve, is entitled to take a leave of absence for military service. This can include active duty, training exercises, drills, deployment, or any other military duty required by orders. During the leave, the employee is provided with job protection, meaning they have the right to return to their job after completing their military service. The employer is required to reinstate the employee to the same or an equivalent position, with the same pay, benefits, and seniority they would have attained if they had not taken leave. There are two main types of California Leave of Absence for Military Service: 1. California Military Duty Leave: This type of leave covers employees who are called to active duty, deployment or training in the Armed Forces of the United States. It also includes California National Guard members who are called to state active duty. 2. California Emergency Duty Leave: This type of leave covers employees who are members of the California National Guard or State Military Reserve and are called to serve in emergency situations within the state, such as in response to natural disasters or civil disturbances. Both types of leave provide the same basic protections, including the right to return to work and protection against employment discrimination based on military service. The duration of the leave may vary depending on the specific military service or emergency duty required, and employees are required to provide advance notice to their employer, whenever possible, of their need for leave. In addition to federal and state protections, some California cities may have their own ordinances that provide additional rights and benefits for employees on a military leave of absence. Employers must comply with all applicable laws, statutes, and ordinances to ensure proper treatment of employees serving in the military.