What is the primary purpose of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?

The primary purpose of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is to grant employees the right to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specific family and medical reasons. This legislation allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of leave in a 12-month period for events such as the birth of a child, adoption, serious health conditions, or caring for an immediate family member with a serious health condition.

This job protection means that an employee's position is secured during the leave, ensuring they can return to their job or a comparable position afterward. It is designed to assist individuals in balancing their work and family responsibilities without the constant worry of job loss due to necessary absences for personal or family health needs.

While health insurance coverage during the leave may be maintained under the FMLA, that is not the primary focus of the act itself. Additionally, the FMLA does not provide for paid family leave; the leave is typically unpaid. The act also aims to protect employee rights rather than restrict them following childbirth. Hence, option B correctly captures the essence and primary intent of the FMLA.