Dispute Over USPS Refusal to Accept FMLA Medical Certification Appealed to Arbitration

The APWU has appealed to arbitration a dispute over the Postal Service's refusal to accept medical certification for chronic conditions covered under the Family and Medical Leave Act if not submitted at the time of the absence. It is the APWU's position that employees may submit medical certification notifying the employer of a serious health condition before an absence or leave begins. It is the APWU's position that this fulfills th employees obligation under the FMLA to provide the employer with notice as soon as practicable.