This web article is also available in Haitian Creole and Spanish here.
UHR is pleased to share an important update to the University System of Maryland’s leave programs that will expand support for employees during significant life events.
Important Information
Beginning July 1, 2026, USM will implement a new Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program. This benefit provides eligible employees (faculty, staff exempt and non-exempt, C1s, and C2s) with paid, job-protected leave for qualifying family, medical, and certain military-related reasons.
This program was established under Maryland law applicable to Executive Branch employees, including USM. It is important to note that this USM-administered PFML program is separate from the State’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program, which is currently scheduled to take effect January 1, 2028. USM employees are not covered by the FAMLI insurance program, and PFML benefits will continue to be provided directly by USM.
What This Means for You
PFML allows you to take time away from work while continuing to receive your regular pay and maintaining your benefits and job protection.
In most cases, employees may take:
- Up to 12 weeks of paid leave in a 12-month period
- Up to 24 weeks in limited circumstances
PFML covers:
- Bonding with a new child (birth, adoption, or placement)
- Your own serious health condition
- Caring for a family member with a serious health condition
- Certain military-related situations
Changes To Existing Leave Policies
Paid Parental Leave
- USM’s current parental leave policies will be replaced by PFML.
- This includes:
- Board of Regents Policy VII-7.49 – Policy on Parental Leave and Other Family Supports for Staff, and
- Board of Regents Policy II-2.25 – Policy on Parental Leave for Faculty
- Leave for bonding with a new child will now be provided through the PFML program.
Changes to Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- USM will move from a “look-back” method to a “look-forward” method for tracking FMLA leave.
- Going forward, your 12-month FMLA period will begin on the date you first use FMLA leave.
- All eligible employees will receive a new 12-week FMLA entitlement starting July 1, 2026, regardless of leave used prior to that date.
These updates are designed to better align federal FMLA with Maryland’s PFML, making it easier to coordinate your leave benefits.
What You Should Do Next
No immediate action is required.
If you are planning for a qualifying leave on or after July 1, 2026:
- Please review the attached PFML Employee FAQs (available in English, Haitian Creole, and Spanish)
- Contact UHR Leave and Accommodations (umdleave@umd.edu) with any questions or for guidance on your specific situation
In the coming weeks, UHR will share additional details about the PFML policy, including eligibility and how employees can access this new leave type. UHR will offer information sessions, website updates, and resources to help employees understand the new policy and any actions they may need to take.