Friday, March 6, 2015

USA: Federal Rule To Extend Medical Leave To Same-Sex Spouses In All States

from National Public Radio, March 6 2015
Legally married spouses in same-sex couples soon will be able to take unpaid time off to care for a spouse or sick family members even if they live in a state that doesn't recognize same-sex marriage.
The final rule issued by the Department of Labor takes effect March 27. It revises the definition of "spouse" in the Family and Medical Leave Act to recognize legally married same-sex couples regardless of where they live. Prior to that, only couples that lived in a state that recognized same-sex marriage could take advantage of the act's benefits.
Currently, 37 states plus the District of Columbia permit same-sex marriages.
Click here for entire broadcast, transcript, and article.