Military Leave Absence Policy

When an employee has to leave their job to serve on active duty in the armed forces, either voluntarily or involuntarily, they will need to take a military leave of absence. So, you need to have a military leave absence policy to ensure that the organization adheres to federal laws. For instance, in the United States, businesses need to abide by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). This act protects the workers’ rights who leave their jobs to undertake military service. We have created this template so that you can get a head start in creating the policy for your organization.

Military Leave Absence Policy

Military leave of absence is a period of time during which an employee is granted leave from work to fulfill military duties, such as training or deployment. This leave is protected under federal law, specifically the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), which ensures that employees are able to serve in the military without facing negative consequences in their civilian employment.

Military Leave Absence Policy Brief & Purpose

This policy outlines the guidelines and procedures for military leave of absence for employees in our organization. The purpose of this policy is to ensure that employees who are called to active military duty or training are granted the necessary leave and provided with the support they need during their absence.

Military Leave Absence Policy Scope

This policy applies to all employees of the organization who are members of the military reserve or National Guard and are called to active duty or training. It also applies to employees whose family members are called to military duty and require their support.

Policy Elements

1. Eligibility: Employees who are members of the military reserve or National Guard are eligible for military leave of absence. This includes employees who are called to active duty for training, deployment, or other military obligations.
2. Notification: Employees must notify their supervisor as soon as possible when they receive official orders for military duty. They should provide a copy of their orders and indicate the expected duration of their absence.
3. Duration of Leave: Military leave of absence will be granted for the duration of the employee's military duty. This may include training periods, deployment, or other military obligations. The employee will be reinstated to their position upon completion of their military duty.
4. Pay and Benefits: Employees on military leave of absence will continue to receive their regular salary and benefits for up to 30 days of military duty per calendar year. Beyond 30 days, employees may choose to use accrued paid time off or take unpaid leave.
5. Reinstatement: Upon completion of their military duty, employees will be reinstated to their position with the same benefits and seniority as if they had not been on leave. They will not be discriminated against for taking military leave.
6. Support Services: The organization will provide support services to employees on military leave, including assistance with benefits continuation, reintegration into the workforce, and resources for military families.

Procedures:

1. Notify your supervisor as soon as possible when you receive official orders for military duty.
2. Provide a copy of your orders and indicate the expected duration of your absence.
3. Work with HR to ensure that your pay and benefits are maintained during your military leave.
4. Stay in contact with your supervisor and HR throughout your military duty to provide updates on your status and expected return date.
5. Upon completion of your military duty, notify HR of your return and work with them to ensure a smooth transition back to your civilian employment.

It is the responsibility of both the employee and the organization to follow this policy and ensure that employees are granted the necessary support during their military leave of absence. Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having a comprehensive Military Leave of Absence policy template is crucial for HR professionals to ensure that employees who serve in the military are properly supported and informed about their rights and benefits. This policy not only aligns with legal requirements but also demonstrates a company's commitment to honoring and respecting the sacrifices made by those who serve in the armed forces. By implementing and communicating this policy effectively, HR professionals can create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture that values the contribution of military personnel.