Continuing in our series to test your employment law IQ, this week we will focus on FMLA requests often received in HR offices.
Scenario: Henry Fixit worked as a maintenance man for Sleep Inn for almost 20 years. Sleep Inn has 105 employees. As part of Fixit’s regular duties, he was constantly climbing ladders, lifting heavy equipment, and performing other physical labor. Fixit recently suffered a non work-related injury that required surgery. He requested FMLA leave, which Sleep Inn approved. After two months, Fixit gave Sleep Inn’s HR Director a doctor’s note, stating that Fixit was able to return to work, but with certain lifting and bending instructions. When Sleep Inn refused to create a light duty position for Fixit, Fixit sued for FMLA interference.
Which of the following statements is correct?
A. Sleep Inn interfered with Fixit’s FMLA entitlement when it refused to offer him a light duty position.
B. Sleep Inn is not liable for FMLA interference, but it would be liable under workers’ compensation laws for its failure to create a light duty position.
C. Sleep Inn is not required to create a light duty position for Fixit.
D. None of the above.Continue Reading Employment Law IQ: FMLA Interference – What Would You Do?