FAMLI Delayed Again: What Maryland Employers Should Know About the State’s Paid Leave Program
The wait continues. Maryland’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program has been delayed—again—pushing back the date when employers must start collecting and remitting contributions. Originally expected to launch in 2023 with benefits beginning in 2026, the program’s rollout has now been postponed by state officials. What Is the FAMLI Program? FAMLI was established by the Time to Care Act of 2022 and is designed to provide paid leave benefits to eligible Maryland employees. Once implemented, it will offer up to 12 weeks of partially paid leave for workers who need time off for: A serious health condition; Caring for a family member; Bonding with a new child; Certain military-related events. Funding will come from contributions shared by employees and employers. Why the Delay? While official updates from the Maryland Department of Labor have been limited, previous delays were attributed to the complexities of establishing the administrative systems needed to manage contributions and claims. What Employers Should Do Now Even though deadlines have been postponed, employers can use this time to prepare: Review existing leave policies for consistency with FAMLI goals. Update employee communications to reflect the current status of the program. Monitor guidance from the Maryland Department of Labor for new implementation dates and contribution rates. Failing to prepare could lead to compliance issues once the program does go live. Final Thoughts FAMLI will be a significant change for Maryland employers—especially those not currently offering paid family or medical leave. While delays provide breathing room, they also invite uncertainty. Luchansky Law will continue to monitor the situation and provide clear guidance to help employers stay in compliance. Need help reviewing your leave policies or preparing for FAMLI?Contact us at www.luchanskylaw.com or call (410) 522-1020.