Updates on FAMLI’s regulations and more
Dear Stakeholders,
We are pleased to share three important announcements about Maryland’s forthcoming Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program:
1. Chapters 1-5 of FAMLI’s regulations are now in effect and published in the Code of Maryland Regulations. Regulations are the rules for the FAMLI system. Before writing the regulations, we hosted 9 informal engagement sessions, released 12 discussion documents, shared 2 drafts of regulations, and heard from Maryland employers and workers during more than 85 public presentations. The regulations incorporate the feedback we heard to meet the needs of workers and employers in Maryland. Read the regulations.
2. The application window for employers who wish to submit their Declaration of Intent (DOI) will be September 1, 2026-November 15, 2026. Employers who want to offer a private plan will be able to submit their DOI at paidleave.maryland.gov during this window. This is an optional process for employers: employers intending to participate in the State Plan do not need to do anything. After approval of a DOI, employers will then submit requests for FAMLI to approve their private plans in 2027. Read the announcement in the Maryland Register and learn more about private plans.
3. The total rate of contribution, required by law to be set by May 1, 2026, was announced in the Maryland Register. This rate, 0.9%, the same as was previously announced, will be in effect from January 1-December 31, 2027. As a reminder, the rate will be equally divided between employees and employers with 15 or more total employees. Small employers with fewer than 15 employees are exempt from the employer’s portion of the contributions. Read the announcement in the Maryland Register.
Finally, you’re invited to an exciting opportunity to help refine the employer registration process. In the coming months, all Maryland employers will need to register with FAMLI. But before the process is opened to everyone, we are hosting what we’re calling a “soft launch.” During this time, the registration process is being shared with a small group of employers, so that we can gather your feedback and make adjustments as needed. If you are interested in registering early with FAMLI and then offering us your feedback on the process, please fill out this interest form.
If you have questions, please check out the FAQs listed on our website or reach out to our Customer Care team at (410) 525-4010 or paid.leave@maryland.gov. Thank you all for continuing to engage with us.
-The FAMLI Team
|
