Glossary
FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act)
A US law giving eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for specific family and medical reasons.
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a US federal law that entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for qualifying reasons — such as the birth or adoption of a child, a serious health condition, or caring for a family member.
During FMLA leave, group health benefits must be maintained, and the employee is generally entitled to return to the same or an equivalent role. Eligibility rules (employer size, hours worked, tenure) apply.
Example: A new parent taking 12 weeks off after a birth, with their job protected, may be using FMLA leave.
In Orvella: Orvella lets you define custom leave types — including unpaid, job-protected categories — with their own rules and approval.