We have a “Catastrophic Leave Bank” maintained by our union for members to access in times of extreme need and/or extended absence from work, primarily due to FMLA-qualifying circumstances.
The bank is funded entirely from SU members who, upon separation from state service, had sick leave on the books when annual and sick leave (50%) converted to Personal Leave several years ago. We negotiated this benefit in 2000, and there is no deduction from any active member’s leave balance or contribution required.
Members may be eligible for up to 300 hours of catastrophic leave. To qualify, you must meet several criteria. Beyond meeting those criteria, the process is straightforward: your physician must attest to the amount of time you or your family member will need for the medical condition and sign the request form.
To request catastrophic leave, please contact your regional APEA office. Staff there will submit your request to the state and answer any questions you have about this benefit. You can find office locations and contact information at apea-aft.org/contact-8.
We hope none of you ever need to use these hours — but we want every member to know this benefit is available to you.
SU Leadership
Local 4900 Supervisory Unit