Oklahoma Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons The Oklahoma Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons is a legally mandated employee benefit that provides job protection and continuation of certain benefits to eligible employees who need time off from work to address their own serious health condition or that of their family members. This leave is outlined under the Oklahoma Legal Regulations for Employee Medical Leave Act (ELMA). Eligibility for Oklahoma Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons: To be eligible for the Oklahoma Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons, an employee must meet certain criteria, including: 1. Employee: The employee must have worked for their employer for at least 12 months and a minimum of 1,250 hours during the previous 12-month period. 2. Illness or Injury: The leave must be taken for a qualifying serious health condition that affects the employee or their immediate family member. Types of Oklahoma Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons: 1. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): This federal law entitles eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for their own medical condition or that of their immediate family members. The FMLA applies to employers with 50 or more employees. 2. Oklahoma Employee Medical Leave Act (ELMA): This state-specific law covers employees who work for employers with fewer than 50 employees or those not covered under FMLA. The ELMA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave within a 12-month period for their own or their family member's medical condition. 3. Short-Term Disability (STD) Leave: Employees who have short-term disability insurance may be entitled to receive a portion of their salary while on a leave of absence due to a medical condition. This type of leave is typically paid and covers a specific timeframe based on the employee's disability policy. Benefits and Protections: During an approved Oklahoma Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons, employees are entitled to certain benefits and protections, including: 1. Job Protection: Employees are guaranteed the right to return to their position or an equivalent position with the same pay, benefits, and seniority upon their return from leave. 2. Continuation of Health Insurance: Employers are required to maintain the employee's health insurance coverage while on leave. However, the employee may be responsible for paying their portion of the premium. 3. Accrual of Leave and Seniority: Employees on leave will continue to accrue benefits and seniority as if they were actively working. 4. Intermittent or Reduced Schedule Leave: If medically necessary, employees may request intermittent leave or a reduced work schedule to accommodate their medical condition or that of their family member. It's important for both employees and employers to understand the specifics of the Oklahoma Leave of Absence for Medical Reasons and comply with the applicable laws and regulations. Employees should consult their company's human resources department or the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission for detailed information and guidance regarding their specific circumstances.