Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, August 5, 1993                   TAG: 9308050176
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-2   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: KENNETH SINGLETARY STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: CHRISTIANSBURG                                LENGTH: Short

TOWN WORKERS HAVE NEW LEAVE RULES

The new rules will allow workers to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid family leave for the birth or adoption of a child.

Twelve weeks of family medical leave apply to the serious health condition of a town employee, spouse, child or parent.

Men and women are eligible for leave under the new rules. In cases in which a couple work for the same employer, they will share the 12-week period.

Christiansburg's previous maternity-leave policies applied only to women.

The federal regulations, which take effect today, apply to employers with 50 or more workers. Christiansburg has about 130 workers.

Workers must use all accrued paid leave before using unpaid leave, and the total of the paid and unpaid leave is not required to exceed 12 weeks under the rules.

Employees must obtain certification from a health-care provider before returning to work after family medical leave.

Life and health insurance must be maintained during unpaid leave, and annual and sick leave do not accrue during such leave.