What is the maximum amount of unpaid job-protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) within a 12-month period?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides eligible employees with the right to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid job-protected leave during a 12-month period for specific family and medical reasons. These reasons can include the birth of a child, the adoption or foster placement of a child, caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition, or dealing with the employee’s own serious health condition.

This 12-week period is designed to help employees balance work and family responsibilities, allowing them to take necessary time off without fear of losing their job or health benefits. It's important for employees and employers to understand this provision to ensure compliance with the law and to uphold the rights granted to eligible workers under FMLA. The other options reflect periods of leave that exceed the statutory maximum provided by FMLA, which is why they are not applicable.