President Bush Pocket Vetoes Provisions Expanding FMLA
 
January 4, 2008
 
Todd D. Steenson- Chicago

Contrary to expectations, on Monday, December 31, 2007, President Bush pocket vetoed the military spending bill that included the expansions of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for military families discussed in our December 20, 2007, Employment Alert. The President’s action was not based upon opposition to the FMLA amendments. Rather, the President said that he was vetoing the bill because it contained provisions that would expand the ability of U.S. citizens to seek financial compensation from countries that supported or sponsored terrorist acts, including Iraq when it was under the rule of Saddam Hussein. The President explained that these provisions could expose Iraq to significant financial burdens that could weaken the relationship between the U.S. and Iraq during “this critical period in Iraq’s history.”

Congressional leaders have indicated that they plan to act quickly to address the President’s concerns and submit a new bill to the President. Although both political parties have indicated support for the expansions to the FMLA we discussed previously, it is unclear whether these changes will be included in the new bill.
We will continue to keep you updated on the status of this legislation.

For more information, email Todd D. Steenson at todd.steenson@hklaw.com or call toll free, 1-888-688-8500.