If pregnant or parenting, can I request to take a leave of absence from employment?
Federal and State Law as well as University rules dictate the leave of absence options available to Texas A&M employees, including a graduate student employee who is grant funded. Note that an employer may not compel an employee to take leave because she is pregnant -- even if the employer believes the work environment would be dangerous to the fetus -- as long as the employee is able to perform her job.
FMLA: Family and Medical Leave Act The federal FMLA allows qualified employees to take up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave per fiscal year for the birth or adoption of a child; for the care of a child, spouse or parent with a serious health condition; for the employee's own serious health condition; or for the care of a covered military service member. Click here for more information about eligibility criteria and an information packet. See also TAMUS Reg. 31.03.05: Family and Medical Leave.
PLA: Parental Leave Act Texas’s PLA allows mothers and fathers who are not eligible for FMLA leave and to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for the birth of a child or for the placement of a foster/adoptive child (3 years or younger) in the home. The leave begins on the day of birth or the day of the foster/adoption placement and expires 12 weeks thereafter. Click here for more information and a certification form. See also: Texas Statute 661.913: Parental Leave Act.