Mother on Parental Leave Denied Glasses Reimbursement: State Labour Inspectorate Says Employer Acted Illegally

A new mother has contacted LA.LV, reporting that her employer refused to reimburse her for purchasing glasses, citing her absence due to parental leave. She noted that such expenses had been covered previously, but this time the employer claimed that since she is not performing work duties, the reimbursement is not applicable.

According to VDI, Section 149, Paragraph 6 of the Labour Law states that employees on parental leave retain all rights they would have while working. Employers cannot limit those rights simply because the employee is exercising their legal right to parental leave.

If an occupational health doctor prescribes vision correction during a mandatory health check, the employer must cover the costs regardless of whether the employee is present at work, on leave, or on sick leave. VDI recommends that the employee first file a written complaint with the employer, sending it by registered mail, and if the issue remains unresolved, submit a complaint to VDI for potential violation of occupational safety regulations.