Family and Medical Leave Information

The Office of Employee Advocacy can answer questions, provide advice and represent employees of the House of Representatives in situations where an employee may need to take leave -- whether occasionally or for a prolonged period -- due to an employee's personal health condition or family health issues. This includes leave related to injury or surgery, leave for chronic conditions, leave related to public health emergencies (e.g., coronavirus/COVID-19), parental leave, leave for pregnancy-related health conditions, etc. Such leave may fall under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), including the Federal Employee Paid Leave Act (FEPLA).

Employee Advocacy's attorneys can serve as the personal advisor to House employees to explain the employee's rights and options under theFMLA and FEPLA, as well as procedures under those laws. If desired, Employee Advocacy can also represent the employee in FMLA discussions with the employee's managers. There is no fee or cost to the employee to work with Employee Advocacy.

House employees have a confidential relationship with Employee Advocacy. Employees can contact Employee Advocacy regarding family and medical leave questions via Employee Advocacy's confidential telephone hotline (202) 225-8800 or confidential email (Employee.Advocacy@mail.house.gov).