County proposes look‑back method for FMLA tracking and streamlines vacation incentive approvals

HR staff presented several changes to benefits policy intended to modernize tracking and speed routine approvals. The presentation proposed moving from a forward calendar approach to a rolling look‑back period for calculating Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) eligibility so that employees cannot repeatedly take back‑to‑back large lumps of leave. HR staff explained the change as a standard practice: "we're going to do a roll look back period so they can't take lump sums in 5 month periods." The staffer said the change keeps the same statutory amount of leave but alters how eligibility is tracked.

The staffer also proposed removing commissioners from the approval process for a 40‑hour hiring vacation incentive and giving that authority to administrative officers to streamline hiring. HR recommended allowing employees returning from FMLA to retain up to 40 hours of vacation plus 24 hours of personal preference time, a small reduction from prior practice; staff noted grant‑funding and contract reimbursement implications will be considered further for affected departments.