Council hears employers’ concerns about Maryland 'Time to Care' paid leave and county preparations

County human resources staff briefed council on the Maryland Family (Time to Care) Act implementation timeline and operational implications for the county as an employer.

Staff said the law will allow paid family leave starting Jan. 1, 2028, with 2027 being a ramp-up period requiring registration and quarterly reporting. "As of 01/01/2028 employees will be able to take paid family leave," the HR representative said. The county must decide whether to participate in the state plan or buy private coverage; staff warned private options have not yet been approved by Maryland and rates are uncertain. The state-published rate cited by staff was 0.9% of wages with up to 0.45% that an employer may pass to employees.

Council members raised concerns about the fiscal impact, interaction with existing generous vacation and sick-leave policies, and administrative effects on payroll. Staff said the county will need to update payroll systems, register as an employer with the Family Act, and produce quarterly reports; they also noted uncertainty because actions in other states, such as Missouri, have affected insurer participation and collaborative bidding plans.