March 18, 2026
March Legislative Update — As we move deeper into session, things are picking up quickly in Annapolis. Lawmakers are juggling a wide range of issues impacting businesses—from workforce regulations and healthcare access to pricing policies and energy legislation—all while keeping an eye on broader economic pressures.
On the labor front, there’s been a lot of discussion around new workplace requirements, including a proposed heat stress standard that would require employers to take additional steps to protect workers in high temperatures. At the same time, a major minimum wage proposal that would eliminate the tipped credit and raise wages to $25/hour is drawing significant concern from the business community.
Healthcare remains a key focus as well. A bill gaining support would give small businesses more flexibility to access health benefits through Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs), potentially creating more affordable coverage options.
There’s also movement around unemployment insurance, with proposed updates to how benefits are calculated and how employer contributions are structured. Meanwhile, a bill targeting grocery pricing practices has sparked debate, with concerns about how it could impact both businesses and consumers if enacted.
Energy and environmental legislation continues to evolve, with several bills in play and expectations of a larger, comprehensive energy package still to come before the end of session.
Closer to home, local issues like a potential short-term rental moratorium in Annapolis are also on the radar, along with opportunities for community engagement like an upcoming multi-chamber candidate forum.
What We’re Watching:
- SB 804 (Heat Stress Standards) – Support with amendment; new employer requirements for heat safety
- SB 886 / HB 1229 (Minimum Wage) – Oppose; would eliminate tipped credit and raise wage to $25/hour
- SB 779 / HB 1472 (Small Business Health Benefits) – Support; expands access to PEO-based health plans (seeking small business testimony – House hearing 3/19)
- HB 188 / SB 3 (Unemployment Insurance) – Updates benefit calculations and employer contributions
- HB 895 / SB 387 (Pricing Regulations) – Oppose; concerns about impact on grocery pricing and market stability
- Energy & Environment Bills – CHERISH Act, PFAS ban, and a potential larger energy package expected
- Transportation (HB 437 / SB 59) – Aligning transportation policy with climate goals
- Local: Annapolis short-term rental moratorium under consideration
Key Dates:
- Crossover Day: March 23
- Sine Die: April 13
- Next Chamber Legislative Meeting: April 14
We’ll keep tracking these issues and advocating on behalf of our members—stay tuned for more updates as things continue to move.