Maryland Labor Department Proposes Delay for Family, Medical Leave Program
State officials cite federal workforce reductions and funding shifts behind the FMLI delay, impacting thousands of Maryland employees and employers.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Feb 19, 2025
The Maryland Department of Labor (MD Labor) has proposed delaying the implementation of the state's Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program, citing economic uncertainty and the impact of federal actions on employers and workers.
Under the revised timeline, payroll deductions would begin on Jan. 1, 2027, with benefits becoming available on Jan. 1, 2028. The delay is intended to give businesses and employees additional time to prepare for the rollout.
State officials point to recent federal workforce reductions and funding shifts as key reasons for the proposed extension. With hundreds of thousands of Marylanders employed in civilian federal positions and approximately 225,000 jobs supported by federal contract dollars in 2023, the economic ripple effects have raised concerns for employers and workers alike.
“State agencies like MD Labor are laser-focused on supporting Marylanders as we all respond in real time to the cascading impacts of federal decisions,” said Maryland Labor Secretary Portia Wu. “This focus includes ensuring critical support for federal employees, organizations relying on federal funding, and affected private-sector businesses.”
The Moore-Miller administration remains committed to implementing a strong paid family and medical leave program that benefits workers while keeping the state economically competitive, officials said. MD Labor is continuing work on a digital platform for claims processing, financial systems, and outreach efforts to ensure a smooth transition.
Legislative leaders are collaborating with MD Labor to finalize the extended timeline. Once implemented, FAMLI will provide workers with up to 12 weeks of paid leave—ensuring job protection and up to $1,000 per week for those caring for a family member or managing their own serious health condition.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.