It is essential that managers know the laws to include both federal and state especiall as it applies to FMLA. At our company we have a policy that the employee must take any unused vacation, comp time or sick time within the 12 week FMLA period. The reason for this is that we do not want to see 12 weeks turn into 15 or 17 weeks, remember the employer must also ensure that the work you were doing gets completed in your absence.
As far as the health benefits, the employer pays their portion and so does the employee - they must both pay in accordance to the original terms and conditions of their policy. If the employee does not satisfy the requirements for payment it could jeopardize their coverage.
Do you think FMLA abuse is high or low? Why or why not?