Do you have a set policy in place? Or leave it up to the person to figure out what to do after they've used up all their sick leave and PTO?
What kind of maternity leave does your company offer?
Answers
I'm reading this as potentially two questions. One on the company policy for how much leave time is available and another with how the EE would be paid during that time.
Maternity leave should fall within the FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act) section of your handbook. If this section is not included, I would recommend consulting with a benefits attorney or firm that specializes in this area due to the complexity of this law and the coordination of federal and differing state laws.
How the EE would be paid during the time off is somewhat up to them depending on what is available. You can have a framework in your handbook of options that would be available, such as PTO, sick time, short term disability or unpaid time. This will depend on your specific benefit package and short term disability policy available to your employees.
Overall, I would be clear in your handbook regarding time off under FMLA and then also coordinate a framework of paid or unpaid options available.
I would add, if your policy doesn't allow negative accrual balances and you make exceptions, be careful not to adversely impact one employee demographic over others.
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FP&A