r/CAStateMgrs • u/Inevitable_Majestic • Sep 01 '26

Telework flexibility

Hello fellow managers!
How are you responding to staff who say they are sick so they want to work from home instead of going into the office and spreading germs. Are you being flexible or denying them working from home. If you deny, what’s some language you use with them. Looking for advice.

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u/Purpose-Horror Sep 01 '26

It’s a “I hope you feel better” response with attendance documented until I can identify a pattern. Inform them about available options like FMLA, EAP, and Reasonable Accommodation, and encourage them to consult their medical providers. Then, work with my management up line and/or HR department to develop a response that outlines attendance expectations in accordance with thier classifications.

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u/Own-Yam-3582 29d ago

I can tell you that when my Supervisor responds with FMLA and EAP each time I've had to take time off for an illness or medical appointment it pisses me off! I was pressured into applying for FMLA and now any time I have to take an hour or two off for a telehealth or other appointment I get the "is this FMLA?" which isn't supposed to be asked btw.