Bill > HB299

This bill strengthens protections against fraud and ensures fair wages by expanding prohibitions and penalties related to misrepresenting information to government entities, particularly concerning unemployment insurance contributions and benefit payments, and by enhancing enforcement mechanisms for prevailing wage and living wage laws. It clarifies that knowingly making false records or statements that lead to underpayment of unemployment insurance contributions or overpayment of benefits exceeding $15,000 in a year is prohibited, and it also prohibits making any other false or fraudulent claim against a governmental entity. The bill mandates better coordination between state agencies, including the Commissioner of Labor and Industry and the Attorney General, in investigating complex or unusual violations, and clarifies that civil penalties and damages collected can be used for restitution to affected workers, especially in prevailing wage cases. It also introduces stricter timelines for investigations and citations, allows for joint and several liability for general contractors for subcontractor violations, and enables licensing authorities to suspend or revoke licenses of employers who fail to comply with labor laws and pay penalties or restitution. Furthermore, the bill allows for increased penalties for repeat offenders and clarifies that individuals who have not been properly classified as employees can bring civil actions for damages, with provisions for treble damages and attorney fees in cases of knowing violations. Finally, it establishes a framework for cooperation and information sharing between the Commissioner and the Attorney General to improve enforcement of these labor laws.

Government Affairs

Government, Labor, and Elections (House)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0299?ys=2026RS