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Could Maryland's Paid Sick Leave Bill Be Delayed? Possibly


Ever hear the phrase "pump the brakes"?  This is probably a good time to use it.  On Tuesday, I pointed readers to a development in Maryland in which the state Senate voted 30 - 17 to override Republican Governor Larry Hogan's veto of a paid sick leave bill.  The bill provides that workers in the state will be able to earn up to 5 days of paid sick leave per year (which equates to earning one hour of paid sick leave for every thirty hours worked).

Democrats championed the legislation and the veto override as a win for employees in the state.  The only problem?  The law is set to become effective February 11, 2018 or 30 days after the final override vote was taken this month.  That has left businesses in the state scrambling to ensure compliance with the new law before it goes into effect.  In fact, concern over the ability of businesses in Maryland being able ensure compliance has reached such a fever pitch that lawmakers are considering passing a bill that would delay enforcement of the paid sick leave laws for 60 days after its intended start date.  

With today being January 25 and there being such a tight timeframe to implement this bill that would delay enforcement, I question whether lawmakers in the state will be able to move quickly enough to take action.  Either way, if the lawmakers cannot delay enforcement for 60 days, employers in Maryland should be on notice that starting February 11, enforcement of paid sick leave will be in full effect.


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