Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

The FMLA has helped millions of people.
These are just a few of their stories....

Carole H., age 59, is a hospice worker in the state of Washington and feels “very fortunate” that she was able to use the FMLA when she was diagnosed with cancer.

Jenny W., age 34, was working in Washington, D.C., when she used the FMLA. She says it was “incredibly important” to be able to focus all of her energy on caring for her sick mother, without having to worry about losing her job.

Kevin M., age 60, from Maine uses the FMLA to help his wife, a cancer patient, get to her appointments and treatments. He supports paid leave because it is "fair, reasonable and humane."

Shelley L., age 45, from Wisconsin used the FMLA to care for her son who had to undergo multiple surgeries after being severely beaten during a robbery. Shelley’s boss was instrumental in helping her apply for and use the FMLA during her family crisis.

Bill P., age 44, was working as an accountant in Cleveland when he experienced a mysterious illness that gave him spasms and caused temporary blindness. The FMLA gave his doctors the time they needed to diagnose his optic neuritis.

Robyn M. works for a labor union and lives in Baltimore. She used the FMLA to help care for one of her twin boys who was born with a congenital heart defect. She says she felt fortunate knowing that her job was secure while she took the time she needed.


These stories — and there are many, many more — demonstrate the real, tangible impact the FMLA has on America's workers. And they are the reasons the National Partnership is proud to lead the charge for a truly family friendly America.

Take action:
Sign our petition to promote a national paid leave program »