The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) provided workers with the right to take time off from work to care for their families or themselves without fear of losing their jobs. Although this law is relatively straightforward, some employees and employers may be unsure about how it actually works. This guide is designed to answer many frequently asked questions about the FMLA, and is based on the U.S. Department of Labor regulations explaining the FMLA. Noting that state laws, union contracts or other contingencies may provide additional protections, the guide explains the operation of the federal FMLA alone, and describes the law and regulations only generally. The guide covers issues of family leave for a new baby, a sick child or family member, and using vacation or sick leave to provide this care. Issues of medical leave, including medical certification requirements, are covered. Other issues discussed include how the FMLA protects job and health insurance, requirements for notifying employers, who the FMLA applies to, responses to employer violation of these FMLA rights, other laws, and other family and medical leave materials available from the National Partnership for Women and Families. (JPB)