February 05, 2026
Happy 33rd FMLA Anniversary
The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) was signed by President Clinton and enacted on February 5, 1993. The original legislation, H.R. 1 read that the purpose was, in part, to “balance the demands of the workplace with the needs of families, to promote the stability and economic security of families….and to accomplish [these] purposes in a manner that accommodates the legitimate interests of employers…”
Fast forward to 2026. On January 8th, the U.S. DOL announced it collected more than $1M in back wages for FMLA violations. Administering FMLA leave is a challenge for most employers. Between myriad forms, deadlines, interpreting regulations and court interpretations, it can be difficult at best. To assist, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division recently published seven brief videos addressing various aspects of the FMLA.
I think #7 is a great resource for managers and supervisors, with brief examples of what not to do to avoid even the appearance of interference or retaliation. ICYMI, earlier this year WHD also published two related opinion letters, plus four addressing FLSA questions. You can read more about them here.
Be proactive. Check out these resources and more on the U.S. DOL’s FMLA page for posters, forms, FAQ’s and more.
