Q: I am a supervisor and recently have noticed a pattern of disturbing and unusual behavior from one of my employees. I am considering placing this employee on corrective counseling, but I believe that this employee would benefit greatly from a visit to the Employee Assistance Program. Can I make such a visit mandatory?

A: Whenever circumstances arise in which a supervisor notices disturbing or unusual behavior from one of his or her employees, the supervisor is encouraged to contact the office of human resources immediately. Depending on the circumstances, formal corrective counseling may be necessary. However, a supervisory referral to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) also may be appropriate. Such EAP referrals can be arranged through the employee relations office of human relations. The EAP provides confidential and professional counseling services free of charge to University staff and faculty.

Q: I have a daughter who is 22 years old and a full-time student. How long can she remain covered as a dependent under my medical benefits?

A: She will no longer be under your medical benefits when she marries, ceases to be a full-time student or reaches the 25-year age limit. If you notify the benefits office within 31 days of the date your daughter will lose benefits as a dependent, she will qualify under the COBRA law for continued benefits at personal expense until other benefits become available (in this case, a 36-month limit). Remember, it is your responsibility to provide timely notification of a COBRA triggering, even within 31 days. Most plans end full-time student coverage at age 23.

Human resources wants to hear from you. Please send your questions to Michael Memos in Fitzgerald Hall.

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