H.R. 4986, National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2008, Sent to President

01/29/2008

1/29/08: The second version of the Defense Authorization bill was sent to the President last week, with revisions made regarding lawsuits involving Iraq. Included in the bill is a new provision that extends from 12 weeks to 26 weeks the amount of leave a family member can take to care for an injured veteran. It also expands the definition of who is eligible for such leave by including “next of kin” or nearest blood relative.

The employing agency may require a certification from the employee. The Office of Personnel Management will probably issue regulations for such a certification in the near future.

NTEU applauds this new provision, but we are still working with Congress to provide paid family and medical leave for federal employees.