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The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) specifically outlines the conditions under which eligible employees can take unpaid, job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons. Enacted in 1993, this federal law allows qualified employees to take up to 12 weeks of leave in a 12-month period for situations such as the birth or adoption of a child, caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition, or dealing with their own serious health condition.

FMLA sets detailed requirements for eligibility, notice, and documentation, ensuring that both employees and employers understand their rights and responsibilities. This makes it the definitive regulation governing such leave, with clear guidelines on how it may be applied in various circumstances.

The other regulations listed do not govern family and medical leave. The Americans with Disabilities Act focuses on protecting individuals with disabilities against discrimination and ensuring reasonable accommodations. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act mainly governs retirement plans and health benefit plans, while the Occupational Safety and Health Act is concerned with workplace safety and health standards. Each serves a distinct purpose unrelated to family and medical leave, which is exclusively addressed by the FMLA.