Regarding the employee who is using several weeks of accrued sick leave
while on matenity leave - there is something inherently unfair about
charging a project for leave accrued on other sponsored agreements.

We think we have solved this problem by establishing a leave pool for
sponsored agreements.   All projects are assessed a charge for sick and
annual leave as it is accrued.  When leave is actually used, the pool is
charged for the cost of the wages and fringe benefits.  The pool also
absorbs the costs of leave paid upon termination of employment.

After the initial shock of the increase in fringe benefit rates,  I believe
the PIs are accepting the concept.  For what its worth,  the leave pool has
stood the scrutiny of our independent auditors.
Richard Hamma                   Voice  -  406-243-5132
Business Services                       Fax     -  406-243-4867
The University of Montana               Email  -  xxxxxx@selway.umt.edu
Missoula, MT   59812