On March 12, Executive Director Michael Sanderson testified before the Appropriations Committee in support of HB 1503 – State Personnel – Paid Family and Medical Leave with amendments.
This bill nominally alters the application of the pending Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Program for State employees, in conformance to negotiated agreements with state employee representative organizations. MACo’s amendments are to modify provisions of the proposed deferral of the global FAMLI program, to avoid forcing counties’ seeking a prove plan to still collect a year of advance contributions to the State insurance fund.
“We are here on this bill, because of the mid-session announcement of a delay in the global program, ” said Mr. Sanderson. “Whether it’s in this bill, the BRFA, or in other legislation — we need this language so we have certainty by this time next year.” The Maryland Municipal League and Maryland Association of Boards of Education both offered testimony in alignment with the same message as MACo.
MACo’s amendments, drafted to HB 1503, should be adopted to this bill, or the applicable legislation that ultimately becomes the vehicle to alter the program timetable. The State has ample means with its local governments and their supported entities (like libraries, or community colleges) to address any shortfalls in contributions if their private plan arrangements were to erode. Counties want to work with the State to ensure a smooth and effective implementation of the FAMLI program, but to achieve that goal, the State should adopt these amendments. Without these changes, local governments risk being in the same uncertain and costly position 18 months from now.
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