MD SB417

Employers cannot discharge, discipline, penalize, or refuse to hire employees or applicants who decline to attend employer-sponsored meetings where the employer communicates opinions on religious or political matters, including elections, political parties, legislation, or decisions to join labor organizations

Exemptions apply to religious organizations, political organizations communicating their tenets, educational institutions requiring coursework lectures, nonprofit training programs, employers conducting legally required training, and government new employee orientations

Employees may file written complaints with the Commissioner of Labor and Industry within 180 days of an alleged violation; the Commissioner must investigate and attempt mediation before assessing penalties

Civil penalties range up to $10,000 for initial violations and up to $25,000 for subsequent violations, with additional remedies including injunctive relief, compensatory damages, reinstatement, back pay, and attorney's fees

Employers must post notices and provide written notification to new hires about these protections; the Commissioner must develop required posters by November 1, 2026, with the law taking effect October 1, 2026