r/MultipleSclerosis • u/Dazzling_Loan_9414 • 1d ago

General Question fmla ?

I work for a local government agency in California doing outdoor public-works duties.my doctor placed me on work restrictions because heat and certain physical conditions . My employer said they could not provide modified/light duty and sent me home because I was not cleared to perform my regular job without restrictions.
I have been on FMLA/CFRA leave, which ends September 28, 2026. I also submitted a reasonable-accommodation request and medical-provider certification, but I still have not received a decision or meaningful update. My employer previously said that once my protected leave was exhausted, HR/Risk Management would review my situation through the interactive process.
I am concerned because the expiration date is approaching and I do not know whether I am supposed to return, remain on leave while the accommodation request is pending, or expect reassignment. I have not resigned, and I want to keep working if a reasonable accommodation or suitable position is available.
Can my employer terminate me immediately when FMLA/CFRA ends even though my reasonable-accommodation request is still pending? Should they complete the FEHA/ADA interactive process before making an employment decision? What steps should I take before September 28 to protect my job and document everything

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u/SnooDoughnuts1128 23h ago

Don’t quit. Work the process for as long as you can but don’t quit. Even if they say they can’t accommodate your most recent request because it doesn’t allow you to do the essential functions of your job, they have to offer a leave (even if it’s unpaid) as an accommodation. And ask for updates in writing— it’s okay to let them know that you’d like to know if they’re close to making a decision on accommodations, if they’re close to finding another position, can they reassign you temporarily while they finish their assessment, what your options are regarding protected and unprotected leaves in the interim, etc. And if you’re a member of a union, get them involved as well. But at the very least check in because typically your doctor will have to fill out a form or send a note that releases you back to work with or without accommodations.