Victim's Economic Security and Safety Act Leave (VESSA)
Pursuant to the Victim’s Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA), team members who are victims of domestic or sexual violence or who have family or household members who are victims of such violence are allowed time away from work for approved activities.
Duration of Leave
Team members will be granted VESSA leave under FMLA for up to 12 weeks per rolling 12-month period, either continuously or intermittent. Combined VESSA leave and other FMLA leaves of absence cannot exceed a combined 12 weeks in a rolling 12-month period.
Benefits Status During Leave
Team members will retain benefits throughout the approved FMLA leave. If the leave is unpaid, the team member is responsible for providing the applicable payment for voluntary benefits.
Compensation During Leave
A combination of vacation and sick time benefits can be used depending on the type of leave; refer to the applicable benefit policy for more information.
Return to Work
A VESSA leave of absence is job-protected, meaning you are entitled to return to your job in the same position as when you left for your leave. However, if your position no longer exists, you should be offered one that is comparable in terms of skills, duties, pay, benefits, etc.
Other Considerations
A married couple employed by Carle Health may be limited to a combined total of 12 weeks during a rolling 12-month period for all FMLA qualifying reasons.