Boss Told Me To Resign During Medical Leave - Is This Legal? (nc)

Location: North Carolina

I work as a valet and just had a medical procedure. I submitted a doctor's note for medical leave from Jan 27 - Feb 13, 2026.

My boss called me yesterday and said that because I don't have PTO available and they "can't have me on the books at 0 hours," I should resign and reapply when I'm recovered.

I drafted this email response asking for their written policy on unpaid medical leave before making any decisions. Is this the right approach, or should I handle this differently?

"Subject: Medical Leave - Clarification Needed

Hi [Boss Name],

Thank you for speaking with me regarding my medical leave. To recap our conversation: I submitted documentation on Jan 28 from my doctor stating I am on medical leave from January 27 - February 13, 2026, following a medical procedure. During our call today, you indicated that because I don't have PTO available and you cannot have me on the books at 0 hours, I should resign and reapply when I'm recovered. Before proceeding, I need to understand the company's official policy on medical leave in writing. Can you please provide: The company's policy regarding unpaid medical leave for documented medical procedures Whether there are any other options available besides resignation Confirmation of what this means for my employment status I want to make sure I fully understand the situation before taking any action. Thank you"

My concerns: If I resign, I lose unemployment eligibility This feels like pressure to quit I don't know if this is legal What should I do? Is my email a good response?