The purpose of the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is to help employees balance the demands of work and family. But the law can be hard for employers to apply in the real world. Questions about eligibility, coverage, notice and certification requirements, administering leave, continuing benefits, and reinstatement can challenge even the most experienced managers. This book has the plain-English answers to all of your tough questions about the FMLA. It provides detailed information, real-life examples, sample forms, and other tools to help you meet your legal obligations. The 5th edition covers all the latest updates on the FMLA, including rules for same-sex couples, new cases explaining the application of the FMLA, state paid family leave laws, and more.