November 2025 Labor Law Updates for Baltimore, Maryland
This month’s Maryland labor law roundup highlights key court decisions and regulatory developments that affect employers, HR professionals, and employees navigating workplace compliance. Brought to you by the Maryland team at HKM Employment Attorneys, these updates summarize important employment law rulings and administrative actions from November 2025.
November 2025 brought notable labor law activity in Maryland, including a significant wage classification decision, final mini-WARN Act regulations, and ongoing regulatory updates for the state’s paid leave program. Employers and HR professionals should monitor these developments closely to stay compliant and proactively adjust policies where necessary.
For questions about how these developments affect your workplace or to get help updating your Maryland employment policies, contact HKM Employment Attorneys at https://hkm.com.
Swain v. Paramount Global, Inc., et al. — Court Ruling
Date: November 2025
Summary:
In Swain v. Paramount Global, Inc., a Maryland federal court held that an employee’s short-term incentive bonus under the employer’s compensation plan did not qualify as a “wage” under the Maryland Wage Payment and Collection Law (MWPCL). The court focused on the discretionary nature of the bonus: the employer’s plan and the employee’s offer letter made clear that any bonus payment was contingent on subjective performance assessments and employer discretion, rather than a guaranteed payment tied directly to hours worked or other non-discretionary metrics.
Implications:
This decision reinforces the importance of clarity and documentation in bonus and incentive pay structures. Maryland employers should ensure that written plans and offer letters carefully define whether compensation is discretionary or constitutes wages under state law — as mischaracterization can expose employers to wage claim liability under the MWPCL.
Maryland Issues Final Mini-WARN Act Regulations — Regulatory Update
Date: November / December 2025
Summary:
Maryland has issued final regulations implementing the state’s mini-WARN Act, which expands notice requirements for certain layoffs and business closures beyond the federal WARN Act. The regulations include specific provisions applicable to remote employees and clarify thresholds and notice procedures for covered employers.
Implications:
Employers with operations in Maryland should review these regulations carefully to understand when advance notice of workforce reductions or plant closings is required, particularly where remote or distributed workforces may be affected. Compliance will help minimize exposure to penalties under the Maryland law.
Maryland Department of Labor Reissues FAMLI Proposed Regulations — Regulatory Notice
Date: October 17 – November 17, 2025 (public comment period)
Summary:
The Maryland Department of Labor (MDOL) reissued proposed regulations to implement the state’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program. These rules cover general provisions, contributions, equivalent private insurance plans, and dispute resolution. The revised proposal was open for public comment through November 17, 2025 and reflects refinements from earlier drafts, though the claims chapter has not yet been reissued.
Implications:
As Maryland continues to phase in its FAMLI program, employers should track these regulatory developments and consider how future compliance will affect leave administration, payroll contributions, and benefits. While contributions don’t begin until January 1, 2027 (with benefits available no later than January 3, 2028), early engagement with the regulatory process can help shape effective compliance strategies.
Conclusion: Looking Back on Maryland Labor Law Updates from November 2025
As Maryland courts issue critical rulings on wage disputes, wrongful termination, and federal-employee protections, your next step shouldn’t just be reading the news—it should be knowing your rights. At HKM Employment Attorneys in Baltimore, our experienced team specializes in advocating for employees across the state on issues from contract violations and unpaid wages to retaliation and whistleblowing claims. Whether you’re a federal worker navigating MSPB appeals or confronting workplace unfairness under Maryland law, we offer strategic legal guidance backed by attentive client care. If recent case outcomes have raised concerns for your job or benefits, contact our Baltimore office to discuss how we can help you protect your workplace rights.
