The new DOL FMLA Branch Chief, Helen Applewhaite announced last month that there will be an increased focus concerning employer on-site FMLA compliance audits. To that end, she stated that “2014 would become a pivotal year for FMLA enforcement” and that her department had specifically budgeted for increased on-site investigations in 2014 – with little or no notice to employers in most cases.
Applewhaite is also focusing on systemic FMLA issues and will likely request additional information beyond the intial charge and will cover at least 2 years.
FMLA investigations could include employee interviews, similiar to federal wage and hour reviews.
This information is intended to be
educational and should not be considered legal advice on any specific matter.
