Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for the benefit?
Leave benefits are paid to employees through BU payroll according to the employee’s direct deposit election on file. For active employees, the cost of these leave benefits will be covered by each Department.
Why did BU change its leave policy?
BU changed the leave policy to comply with the new MA paid family and medical leave (PFML) law as an exempt private plan. The BU leave policies meet or exceed all requirements of the new law effective January 1, 2021.
Are current sick accruals changing?
If employees currently accrue sick time, they will continue to do so as per the current policies in place. Accrued sick time should be used for occasional absences lasting one week or less, while the Paid Family and Medical Leave benefit is intended for absences lasting longer than one week. Employees may also be eligible to supplement certain Paid Family and Medical Leave benefits with their accrued sick time.
What happens if an employee needs Family or Medical Leave more than once during the year?
Employees may take family and/or medical leave more than once during the year if they have more than one qualifying event. The maximum duration of paid family and medical leave they may take per benefit year, in general, is 26 weeks.
What if an employee’s leave is denied?
An employee has the right to appeal the denial of their leave benefits. In order to appeal, they should contact Matrix Absence Management online or by phone at 877-202-0055.
How does this work with other types of leave like FMLA?
Paid family and medical leave runs concurrently with any leave taken under applicable state and federal leave laws, including the Massachusetts Parental Leave Act and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act.
How do I maintain confidentiality for my employees who go on leave?
You must not accept any medical information from your employee regarding their leave and refer them to Matrix to submit medical information. It is also of utmost important that you maintain the confidentiality of your employee on leave and not share any details with others in your department. If colleagues ask about the status of the employee on leave, please convey that you acknowledge their concern for their colleague, but cannot share any details of the leave.
How do I address patterns of absenteeism? What is the first step?
If you observe regular patterns of absenteeism with your employees, please contact your Human Resources Business Partner.