Understand the overlap between FMLA and COBRA

An employer's obligation to continue an eligible employee's medical insurance under the Family and Medical Leave Act overlaps with the employee's right to continued medical insurance coverage under the provisions of the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA). To avoid liability traps resulting from the overlap, employers, plan sponsors and plan administrators must have a good understanding of the two laws and keep accurate records.