Notice: JavaScript is not available in your browser. Some enhanced features will not be available until JavaScript is enabled.

About Us

Divisions

Family and Medical Leave Insurance

The Division of Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) is a new and growing team within the Maryland Department of Labor. The FAMLI Division is tasked with establishing and administering Maryland's paid family and medical leave insurance system.

What is FAMLI?

Maryland is preparing to launch a new paid family and medical leave system! Starting in 2026, the Maryland FAMLI system will ensure that workers are able to take time away from work to care for themselves or a family member and still receive up to $1000 a week for up to 12 weeks.

FAMLI was established through the Time To Care Act passed by the Maryland General Assembly. Maryland is the 11th state (including DC) to pass such a law. Three more have since followed.

Who will be covered?

Any worker in MD who has worked 680 hours in the past 12 months. Self-employed individuals can also elect to participate.

When will workers use paid family and medical leave?

To care for themselves or a family member with a serious health condition
To welcome a child
To prepare for a family member's deployment

How does FAMLI work?

All employers will be required to provide family and medical leave insurance. Employers will either enroll in the State Plan run by the Maryland Department of Labor’s FAMLI Division or seek approval for a commercial or self-administered plan with benefits equal to or greater than those provided by the State Plan.

The Division will release more information about this process in 2024.

Starting in January 2026, while an employee is out on leave, either the State Plan or the employer’s private plan will provide partial wage replacement to the employee.

How is paid family and medical leave different from existing law?

FAMLI will provide wage replacement while a worker takes time away. The law provides protections so workers can have confidence that they will be able to return to their job after their leave.

How will FAMLI benefit employers?

Employers will benefit from reduced turnover, boosted morale, increased workforce attachment and greater cost predictability while an employee is away. FAMLI also levels the playing field so small businesses can compete for top talent with this valuable and affordable employee benefit. With FAMLI, Maryland will remain an attractive place to live and work.

How can I prepare now?

Invite the FAMLI Division to share information at an upcoming meeting or event by filling out this form

Begin including FAMLI contributions in future budget planning. If you’re a business owner or employer, begin thinking through your options for providing family and medical leave insurance.