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Bill

Bill

SB 216

Unemployment Insurance - Confidentiality of Information

2026 Regular Session

SB 216 strengthens confidentiality protections for Maryland unemployment insurance claimant data, restricting third-party access to sensitive personal and financial records.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 130
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 216

Legislative bill overview

SB 216 modifies Maryland's unemployment insurance law to strengthen confidentiality protections for claimant information held by the Department of Labor. The bill restricts access to sensitive unemployment insurance data and establishes clearer rules about when and how this information can be disclosed to third parties.

Why is this important

Unemployment insurance records contain highly sensitive personal and financial information. Strengthening confidentiality protections can help prevent identity theft, fraud, and misuse of claimant data while building public trust in the system. However, balancing privacy with legitimate government and employer access needs is a persistent challenge.

Potential points of contention

  • Employer access limits: Employers may argue they need broader access to information about former employees' unemployment claims for legitimate business purposes, while privacy advocates want restrictions
  • Law enforcement conflicts: Police and other agencies may contend that data restrictions hinder fraud investigations or criminal proceedings
  • Administrative burden: Stricter confidentiality protocols could require additional resources and create processing delays for legitimate information requests

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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