2024 Tools & Tactics Webinar: Can I Choose to Take FMLA? The DOL Still Says No!

Thursday, July 18

9:00 am PT | 12:00 pm ET

Employers often inquire about allowing their employees the option to “choose” whether to utilize leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The Department of Labor (DOL) unequivocally states that this is not permissible. In this engaging and informative session, we will delve into this critical topic through interactive scenarios that highlight the multifaceted ways this issue can manifest in the workplace. We will explore common scenarios such as employees requesting flexibility with FMLA, seeking to save their FMLA time, and discuss the legal and practical implications for employers.

Through this session, participants will gain valuable insights into navigating FMLA regulations effectively while ensuring compliance with the law. We will provide practical guidance on how employers should respond to various FMLA-related situations, including addressing employee inquiries and managing expectations. Armed with these tools and knowledge, employers will be better equipped to handle FMLA requests and related issues confidently and in accordance with legal requirements.

Join us for an enlightening discussion that will equip employers with the necessary strategies and resources to address FMLA challenges proactively and support their workforce effectively.

DMEC members receive free registration for webinars.

Presenters

Lana Rupprecht

AVP and Senior Product Compliance Counsel
Reliance Standard Life Insurance Company
and Matrix Absence Management, Inc.

Lana is an industry expert in the areas of ADA and FMLA compliance. She is a frequent author and presenter on a variety of topics relating to leave of absence and disability and has advised businesses, Fortune 500 companies, and government entities in all aspects of employment law for over 17 years. Lana holds a J.D. from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. She also attended the University of Denver for her undergraduate degree in journalism and public policy graduating magna cum laude.

Shelby Felton, Esq.

Director and Product Compliance Counsel
Reliance Standard Life Insurance Company
and Matrix Absence Management, Inc.

Shelby Felton, Esq. is a Director of Product Compliance with Reliance Matrix. Shelby provides guidance in the ever-growing complex field of statutory paid leaves to Reliance Matrix clients and other business partners. Shelby has 27 years of experience as an attorney providing advice and counsel to employers on leave policies and implementing, administering, and litigating various leave laws including FMLA, ADA, USERRA, and state leave counterparts as well as all other areas of employment law. Shelby received her J.D. from the University of Nebraska.

Learning Objectives

Understand the content of FMLA regulations, DOL opinions and relevant court cases that address the issue on choosing or “saving” FMLA.
Familiarize yourself with the guidance and opinion letters published by the DOL on designation of FMLA.
Learn about employer best practices and strategies to protect against legal liability.

CEUs

This session qualifies for the following CEUs: 1 ADMS, 1 CDMS, 1 CLMS, 1 PHR, and 1 SHRM. To qualify for CEU credit:

You must attend the full duration of the webinar. Following the webinar and once attendance has been confirmed, you will receive an email with CEU reporting information.
You must register for and watch the webinar individually. Group participation does not qualify for CEU credit.

Exclusively offered by DMEC, the Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS) program is the only professional designation of its kind that provides interactive, hands-on training to ensure your programs effectively comply with state and federal leave laws. Learn more about the CLMS program.