Navigating the Complexities of FMLA, ADA and Other Overlapping Leaves of Absence Laws

This program is intended to highlight the interplay between ADA, FMLA, and other overlapping leaves of absence laws that managers and HR professionals must understand. In fact, in FY 2015, disability discrimination continued to be the most frequently litigated issue by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC has aggressively litigated ADA pattern-or-practice claims and taken numerous individual ADA lawsuits to trial. Among others, the EEOC challenged reasonable accommodation issues, attendance plans, and wellness programs. In addition, in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the ADA, the EEOC and DOJ released a Memorandum of Understanding to streamline coordination of investigations of disability discrimination complaints.

Topics:

• EEOC agenda and anticipated trends with regard to disability discrimination and enforcement activities
• FMLA and disability basics, including an employer’s obligations and when such obligations are triggered
• Complexities of the FMLA, including intermittent FMLA leave and securing necessary leave certifications
• Overlapping obligations under the FMLA and ADA
• New York State’s Women Equality Act’s recent requirements on reasonable accommodations for pregnant women

Registration and Breakfast: 8:00 – 8:30 am

Program: 8:30 – 10:30 am