I had to take personal leave without pay when I became ill, and they closed my job. HAve I been terminated?
If you feel this is due to discrimination relating to your short term disability then you can most definitely take action against the company. If you were on disability they have to have a position of similar pay and benefits available to you when you return. It is very likely that they had someone take over your job, so that probably would not be where you return, but if the company is not allowing you to return at all, that is not how disability works. So if you believe it is discrimination contact your local EEOC office (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission). Continue to look for a job, because it is a government entity and the process is long and obnoxious, but you never know what can come from filing against your employer if they are not acting in the proper manner for your situation. Sources: http://www.dexknows.com/search/?
Unfortunately, the employer can do what they term best for the business. But if you do not know if you are terminated, you need to ask. If you have extended leave of absence, there appears to be some connection you have to the company. You need to stop relying on coworkers and their rumors and go to HR directly. Hope this helps. Ask if you can apply for something else when you are able to come back.