Bill > SB3

This bill, the Unemployment Insurance Modernization Act of 2026, aims to update Maryland's unemployment insurance system by changing how the taxable wage base and weekly benefit amounts are determined. Specifically, it repeals an existing section of law related to unemployment insurance and modifies another to remove the fixed $8,500 taxable wage base, replacing it with a system that will annually set the taxable wage base as an increasing percentage of the state's average annual wage, ultimately reaching 16% of the average annual wage by calendar year 2029. Additionally, the bill revises the calculation of weekly unemployment benefits, establishing a minimum of 15% and a maximum of 40% of the state's average weekly wage, with the maximum gradually increasing to 40% by calendar year 2027. It also updates provisions for dependent allowances, ensuring that the total weekly benefit, including dependent allowances, does not exceed the state's maximum weekly benefit amount. The bill also clarifies that payments for serving as an election judge will not be considered wages that reduce unemployment benefits.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0003?ys=2026RS