Colorado Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons is a statutory provision that allows eligible employees to take an extended leave from work due to their own serious health condition or that of a family member. This leave is protected by the state's employment laws and provides job protection and continued healthcare benefits during the absence. To qualify for Colorado Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons, employees must work for an employer with 20 or more employees for at least 12 months and have worked at least 1,250 hours during that time. This leave can be taken in chunks or intermittently, depending on the medical situation, and can last up to 12 weeks in a 12-month period. There are two primary types of Colorado Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons: 1. Personal Serious Health Condition: Employees can take leave for their own serious health condition, which is defined as an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition that requires ongoing treatment or limits the employee's ability to perform essential job functions. The condition must be certified by a healthcare provider. 2. Family Member's Serious Health Condition: Employees can also take leave to care for an immediate family member (spouse, child, or parent) with a serious health condition. This includes providing physical or psychological care or arranging medical appointments, as certified by a healthcare provider. During the leave, employees are entitled to continue their health insurance coverage as if they were actively working. However, they may be required to manage the cost of premiums. Upon returning from the leave, employees must be reinstated to their previous position or an equivalent one with the same pay, benefits, and terms of employment. It is crucial for employers and employees in Colorado to understand the rights and obligations associated with the Colorado Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons. Employers must have clear policies in place outlining the process for requesting and documenting such leaves. Employees should know their rights and responsibilities, including providing timely notice and necessary medical certification. In summary, the Colorado Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons allows eligible employees to take job-protected leave to deal with their own or a family member's serious health condition. This leave ensures that employees are not penalized for prioritizing their health and well-being or the care of their loved ones.