The Flexible Leave Act took effect yesterday, October 1. The new law requires employers with 15 or more employees that provide paid leave to allow the employee to use any type of accrued paid leave to care for the illness of an immediate family member (child, spouse, or parent). The law only applies to employers that provide paid leave to employees. For more information on the Flexible Leave Act, click here.

We’ve heard some concern from member businesses about the broad scope ambiguity of the language. Questions remain about the appropriate interpretation and implementation of the new law. The Maryland Chamber will work during the 2009 legislative session to address these concerns by advocating corrective legislation to clarify the accurate implementation of the bill and identify options to help employers implement the Flexible Leave Act.

For more information, contact Allyson Black at ablack@mdchamber.org.