When can special leave without pay be granted?

Special leave without pay may be approved for the following situations:
•    Extended Illness: Employees must use all annual, sick, and compensatory leave before going on special leave.
•    Special Work Assignment: Granted for emergency or special assignments that benefit the State or another government agency.
•    Vacation: May be granted with appointing authority approval after all accumulated leave is exhausted.
•    Seasonal Leave: An enforced leave of absence without pay during recess periods when the position doesn’t require year-round work.
•    Officer of Employee Associations:
o    The chief elected officer of an employee association with payroll dues deductions may take up to two (2) years of unpaid leave to serve in office.
o    Not applicable to executive-grade employees, physicians, or dentists.
o    The officer may either carry forward or be paid for accrued annual leave.
o    Upon return, the officer must be reinstated to the same position, class, or rank without loss of rights, leave, or longevity.
o    Board members of qualifying associations may take up to 12 administrative leave days per year to attend board meetings.
•    Athletic Competition: See State of Tennessee Attendance and Leave Manual Chapter 4 – Leave of Absence for Participation in Certain Athletic Competitions.
•    Family and Medical Leave: See State of Tennessee Attendance and Leave Manual Chapter 6 – Family and Medical Leave.
For more information, visit the State of Tennessee Attendance and Leave Manual.