As the 2026 Session of the Maryland General Assembly moves forward, several proposed bills could significantly impact Maryland employers. The Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce encourages members to stay informed and engaged on the following key proposals:
New Paid Leave Mandate (HB1524)
This legislation would require employers to provide up to 20 hours of paid leave annually for parents to attend school-related activities. If enacted, this measure would add another state-mandated paid leave requirement for employers, increasing administrative and payroll obligations.
Tax “Decoupling” Proposal (HB880)
HB880 would “decouple” Maryland from certain federal tax provisions that currently allow businesses to more rapidly deduct investments in machinery, equipment, and interest expenses. Beginning in tax year 2026, many Maryland businesses could lose these accelerated deductions—resulting in higher taxable income and increased state tax liability. While described as a technical adjustment, the practical impact may function as a tax increase on business investment and growth.
$25 Minimum Wage Proposal (HB1229 / SB886)
This proposal would increase Maryland’s minimum wage to $25.00 per hour by 2030, with automatic future increases tied to inflation. The legislation would also place minimum wage protections in the Maryland Constitution. Beyond entry-level wages, this proposal could create wage compression, increased payroll costs, pricing pressures, and workforce restructuring challenges for employers across industries.
$18 Minimum Wage Proposal (HB1479)
Separate from the $25 per hour proposal, HB1479 would raise Maryland’s minimum wage to $18.00 per hour and tie future increases to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), establishing automatic annual adjustments.
Engage in the Legislative Process
Chamber members are encouraged to participate in the legislative process by submitting written testimony or signing up to testify in person or virtually through the Maryland General Assembly’s official platform, MY MGA.
Visit: www.mymgaleg.maryland.gov
Staying informed and engaged ensures that the business community’s voice is heard on policies that affect operations, workforce, and economic growth across Maryland.
