Short term disability (STD) is income replacement - not protected leave. Unplanned absences as defined by HR 5016 Staff Attendance & Tardiness - Policy are subject to discipline up to and including termination.
STD provides eligible employees a percentage of income replacement for up to 20 weeks (800 hours based on 1.0 FTE) within a rolling 12-month period if they are unable to work due to a serious health condition. Eligible employees automatically receive coverage through the Base Plan and can purchase additional coverage. Because short term disability is one of the qualifying leave types available through the University, employees must first apply through MetLife and be approved for STD. Employees can also use other available types of leave if they need additional time off.