ANNAPOLIS — Maryland has unveiled a bold new approach to affordability: taking money out of your paycheck in 2027 for benefits you can’t use until 2028.

Under Maryland’s FAMLI program, payroll contributions begin Jan. 1, 2027. The initial rate is 0.9% of wages, with employees potentially paying up to 0.45%. Benefits aren’t scheduled to start until January 2028. 

State officials say the year of collections is needed to build the program’s trust fund.

The Canton Cat recognizes this financial strategy immediately. It’s basically when I surrender half my tuna to a larger cat today in exchange for the possibility of smelling his dinner next year.

Once benefits begin, eligible workers can receive paid leave for qualifying family and medical situations. The contribution rate can also be recalculated annually and, under current law, rise as high as 1.2%. 

Annapolis calls it an insurance contribution.

Your paycheck will probably call it “where did my money go?”

Reporting From Behind the Dumpster.