Final answer:
The legal-political component of the general environment is affecting the public company's change in leave policy due to new government regulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The component of the general environment affecting this change in the company's policy regarding leaves is the legal-political component. This component is related to government regulations that impact how businesses operate within society. The new regulations requiring a public company to change its policy on leaves illustrate the direct influence that governmental actions have on business operations. Companies need to comply with legislation which includes labor laws, health and safety standards, and employee rights, and failure to comply can result in legal penalties and a negative impact on the company's reputation.