Core Provisions: This act would expand the FMLA by permitting employees to use FMLA leave “to attend court proceedings relating to the prosecution of a person for a violent crime (including domestic violence) committed against the employee, a spouse, parent, son, or daughter of the employee, or other next of kin of the employee.” Whenever possible, the employee would be required to give the employer at least two weeks notice of the intention to take the leave. The employer would be able to require the employee to supply certification issued by a court or prosecutor relating to the court proceeding for which leave is taken.

Status: H.R.5845 was introduced by Rep. Emanuel (D-IL) on April 17, 2008, and referred to the House Committees on Education and Labor, Oversight and Government Reform, and House Administration.