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Labor law in Maryland encompasses state and federal regulations that govern the relationship between employers and employees. These laws are designed to protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, prevent workplace discrimination, and regulate working conditions. Maryland labor laws cover a variety of topics, including minimum wage, overtime, workplace safety, anti-discrimination protections, family and medical leave, and wrongful termination. In addition to federal laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act, Maryland employers and employees must comply with state-specific rules that may offer broader protections than federal law.
Legal issues in the workplace can be complex and stressful. You may need a labor law attorney if you face one or more of the following situations:
A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with your employer, represent you in lawsuits, and help you secure fair compensation or reinstatement if your rights have been violated.
Several Maryland-specific labor laws provide additional protections to employees. Here are some key aspects relevant to labor law in Maryland:
Local (county or city) ordinances may also establish labor standards that further supplement or expand these state laws.
As of January 2024, Maryland’s statewide minimum wage is $15.00 per hour for most employers, with some variations based on employer size and occupation.
Non-exempt employees in Maryland are entitled to one and one-half times their regular rate of pay for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Some positions, such as certain farm workers or executives, may be exempt.
You have the right to file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if you believe you have been discriminated against based on race, gender, age, disability, or another protected class.
Yes, under the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act, most employers with 15 or more employees must provide paid sick and safe leave. Smaller employers must provide unpaid leave.
Maryland law protects employees who report illegal workplace activities (whistleblowing) from retaliation, including firing or demotion.
Maryland is an at-will employment state, meaning an employer can terminate employment for any reason, or no reason, unless it is illegal, such as firing due to discrimination or retaliation for protected activities.
Yes, Maryland has strict child labor laws limiting hours and types of work minors can perform. Work permits are required for employees under age 18.
You can file a wage claim with the Maryland Department of Labor’s Employment Standards Service, which investigates claims for unpaid wages, overtime, and minimum wage violations.
A hostile work environment exists when workplace behavior (such as harassment or discrimination) is so severe or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, offensive, or abusive atmosphere. This can be grounds for legal action.
Maryland law limits the enforceability of non-compete agreements. As of recent updates, employers cannot require non-compete or conflict of interest agreements from employees earning equal to or less than $19.88 per hour or $41,350 per year.
For more information and assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:
If you believe your labor rights have been violated or you are facing a difficult situation at work, take the following steps:
Taking prompt action is important, as some labor law claims have deadlines known as statutes of limitations. An attorney can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
