re: HR Gurus: Need help regarding earned vacation time and resignation

PTO isn't legally payable upon separation in Louisiana under the Employment Security Law. Regardless of who is the moving party that initiates the separation of employment.

Vacation time = payable
Sick Leave =/= payable
PTO =/= payable

Your employer may end up paying you out, but under current Louisiana Law and relevant processes, policy and procedure, PTO is not legally required to be paid in La by the employer. Regardless of the amount accrued.

It must be specifically indicated as vacation. Any PTO reference means you don't have to be paid.