Unemployment Insurance Modernization Act of 2026

HB 188 modernizes Maryland's unemployment insurance system by changing how weekly benefit amounts and employer contribution rates are calculated. It sets the maximum weekly benefit at 40% of the state's average weekly wage (starting in 2027) and bases employer contributions on 16% of the average wage. The Department of Labor must annually update and publish these wage figures online by January 31. This affects all unemployed workers receiving benefits and employers contributing to the unemployment fund.