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Employment Law Update: FAQs Released for Maryland’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program

Date: March 19, 2024
The Maryland Department of Labor’s Division of Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) has released a detailed FAQ document addressing 59 questions surrounding the new paid family and medical leave system that is (now) slated to launch in 2026. As a refresher, FAMLI will permit workers to take time off from work to care for themselves or a covered family member and be paid up to $1,000 weekly for up to 12 weeks.

The FAQs thus far do not address complex topics (such as remote workforce and how to establish a private plan) and focus primarily on basic content information. That said, the document does provide a good overview of the program and addresses questions regarding contributions, claims, and basic private plan questions.

There is pending legislation to amend the FAMLI law yet again, including another delay in the effective date (beyond the year delay that has already been implemented). The FAMLI division of the Maryland DOL continues to work on promised regulations to implement the paid leave program, so changes to the FAQs are highly likely.

Beyond the FAQ document, Maryland employers can also refer to the Maryland Paid Leave website for additional information. Of course, the Whiteford Labor and Employment team is ready to assist with your questions and ensuring you are ready for compliance.
The information contained here is not intended to provide legal advice or opinion and should not be acted upon without consulting an attorney. Counsel should not be selected based on advertising materials, and we recommend that you conduct further investigation when seeking legal representation.