Maryland employers can now register early for the State’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance (“FAMLI”) program as part of the Maryland Department of Labor’s employer registration “soft launch.”

The soft launch gives employers an opportunity to create their FAMLI accounts, add team members, connect with third-party administrators, and provide feedback to the Department of Labor before registration opens to all employers on September 1, 2026.

FAMLI contributions begin on January 1, 2027, and benefits become available in January 2028. Employers should begin preparing now by reviewing payroll systems, evaluating leave policies, and understanding their reporting and compliance obligations.

Ballard Spahr Webinar: Paid Family and Medical Leave is Coming to Maryland

Ballard Spahr will host a webinar on July 29, 2026, from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. ET: Paid Family and Medical Leave is Coming to Maryland: A Guide for Employers.  During the webinar, we will cover employer registration, contribution requirements, employee eligibility, private plan options, and practical steps employers should be taking now to prepare for implementation.

Registration for the Webinar is now open. 

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Ballard Spahr’s Labor & Employment Group routinely provides guidance to clients on developments in federal, state, and local labor and employment laws, including legislative and regulatory developments in Maryland. We regularly assist clients in updating their policies and practices to comply with new legal requirements and regulatory developments.