GSEM Employee Handbook 2022-2023

LEAVE OF ABSENCE Unpaid leave may be requested for unusual circumstances for a period of absence that is not covered by a paid leave, is not considered a period of FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act) or does not fall under USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act) or other legally protected leave rights. An employee has the option to retain one week (37.5 hours) of PTO in their bank, or deplete their PTO bank, before unpaid leave can be used. When the leave is for personal health reasons, the employee’s EIB must be depleted before unpaid leave can be used. The immediate manager and the Chief Human Resources Officer, or designee must approve a request for unpaid leave. Each request is examined on a case-by-case basis and will determine the maximum length for which the leave may be granted. An effort will be made to place employees in the same or similar position when they return to work but cannot be guaranteed. During unpaid leave of more than 60 consecutive calendar days, the employee’s enrollment in the Council’s health and dental, life, AD&D and/or long-term disability insurance plans may be continued; however, the employee will be expected to pay the full cost to maintain these benefits effective the first of the following month. Council contributions to the tax-deferred annuity (403[b]) plan will be discontinued during unpaid leave. The terms of each benefit plan will govern eligibility. Except as provided by law, unpaid leave will not count as service with the organization and paid time off and extended illness hours will not accrue during unpaid leave.

Except as allowed by law, the Council reserves the right to refuse leave if business circumstances warrant.

VOLUNTEER DAY Employees are eligible for one (1) paid day off per calendar year that may be taken in hourly increments, not to exceed 7.5 per year. Staff is encouraged to use this paid time to volunteer with a United Way-funded agency. Approval for a volunteer day must be pre-approved by the employee’s manager.

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