Association leave: Overview, definition, and example
What is association leave?
Association leave refers to a type of leave granted to employees to participate in activities or meetings of professional associations, labor unions, or other organizations they are affiliated with. This leave may be paid or unpaid, depending on the employer’s policies or the terms of a collective bargaining agreement. Association leave is typically used for attending conferences, union-related events, training, or organizational governance activities.
For example, a teacher might take association leave to attend a statewide union conference on educational policy.
Why is association leave important?
Association leave is important because it supports employees’ involvement in professional development, advocacy, or governance activities that can benefit both the individual and the organization. It helps foster strong relationships between employers and associations, promotes collaboration, and ensures employees can actively engage in organizational or union matters.
For employees, association leave provides an opportunity to contribute to their organization’s goals or advance their professional development. For employers, it demonstrates support for employee involvement in broader industry or union activities, fostering goodwill and collaboration.
Understanding association leave through an example
Imagine an employee who is a union representative requests association leave to attend a regional labor negotiation meeting. The company grants three days of paid leave as outlined in their collective bargaining agreement, allowing the employee to fulfill their union responsibilities without using personal or vacation time.
In another example, a nurse takes association leave to participate in a professional nursing association’s annual conference. The employer allows this leave under its policies, recognizing the benefits of the employee gaining new knowledge and insights to bring back to the workplace.
An example of an association leave clause
Here’s how an association leave clause might appear in an agreement or policy:
“Employees who are members of a recognized professional association or labor union may request association leave to attend meetings, conferences, or other activities related to the organization. Association leave must be requested in writing at least [number] days in advance and is subject to approval by the Employer. Paid association leave shall not exceed [number] days per calendar year unless otherwise specified in a collective bargaining agreement.”
Conclusion
Association leave supports employees’ involvement in professional or organizational activities, benefiting both the individual and their workplace. By allowing employees to participate in union or professional association events, employers demonstrate a commitment to employee development, advocacy, and collaboration. Clear policies on association leave help ensure transparency, fairness, and alignment with organizational and employee needs.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.