Bill > HB102

This bill revises Maryland's Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program by making several key changes. It introduces a new term "anchor date" as the reference point for calculating an employee's average weekly wage and eligibility for benefits, which is defined as either the date an application is completed or the date leave begins. The bill delays the program's implementation, moving the start date from July 1, 2025 to January 1, 2027. It establishes an optional enrollment program for self-employed individuals, requiring the Maryland Department of Labor to adopt regulations by July 1, 2028 that outline contribution amounts, benefit amounts, and enrollment procedures. The bill modifies contribution requirements, with employees and employers of 15 or more staff now contributing to the program, and removes previous specific requirements for self-employed individuals' contributions. It also adjusts the weekly benefit calculation, ensuring benefits range from $50 to $1,000, with provisions for annual increases based on the Consumer Price Index. Additionally, the bill changes reporting deadlines, shifts the annual reporting date to October 1, and modifies the triggers for benefit increases. The legislation aims to provide more flexibility and clarity for the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program while ensuring its sustainable implementation.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

Economic Matters (House)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0102?ys=2025RS