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The Maryland Department of Labor has opened employer registration for the State's Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program, marking a significant step toward payroll contributions beginning in 2027 and benefits becoming available in 2028. Employers with at least one employee working in Maryland should begin preparing now for upcoming compliance obligations.
Summary of Key Updates
- Employer registration opened on September 1, 2026 for employers with at least one employee localized in Maryland, including out-of-state employers with remote employees who regularly work from Maryland.
- Initial registration must be completed by an authorized officer of the organization. Third-party agents, such as payroll providers, benefits administrators, or accountants, cannot complete the initial registration on an employer's behalf.
- Employers are automatically enrolled in Maryland's State FAMLI Plan upon registration.
- Employers interested in offering a commercial insured or self-insured private plan may submit a Declaration of Intent between September 1, 2026, and November 15, 2026.
- Employer and employee contributions begin January 1, 2027.
- FAMLI benefits are expected to become available to eligible employees beginning in January 2028.
Employer Action Steps
Employers with Maryland employees may want to:
- Register for the FAMLI program as soon as possible.
- Determine whether to participate in the State Plan or pursue a private plan before the November 15, 2026 Declaration of Intent deadline.
- Prepare payroll systems and vendor relationships for contribution withholding and reporting beginning January 1, 2027.
- Provide employee notice at least one pay period before payroll deductions begin, if employee contributions will be withheld.
- Review existing leave, disability, and paid leave policies in preparation for FAMLI implementation.
- Coordinate with payroll, benefits, legal, and leave administration partners to support compliance readiness.
How Alight Supports Employers
Alight Leave Solutions specializes in state and federal leave of absence programs. Alight Leave Solutions monitors state leave law developments and state agency guidance and will incorporate changes where they affect the administration of leave of absence.
Disclaimer
This material is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained in this article reflects the legislative, statutory, and/or regulatory landscape as of the date of publication. Given the evolving nature of laws, regulations, and interpretive and official guidance, portions of this content may no longer be current. Readers should not rely on this content as a substitute for current compliance guidance and should consult the most up-to-date statutes, regulations, and guidance, and/or seek legal advice before acting on any information referenced herein.
