During the 2025 legislative session, the Maryland General Assembly passed several laws that will take effect starting on October 1 that will impact the small business community.

Legislation includes:

• SB 785: alters the definition of “employer” to exclude employers who are covered by the federal Family and Medical Leave Act for the current year from being required to provide to employees a certain unpaid parental leave benefit in the state.
• HB1018/SB689: Requires banking institutions, credit unions, mortgage lenders, mortgage lending businesses, and mortgage loan originators to include a provision in certain conventional home mortgage loans authorizing a borrower to purchase the property interest of another borrower in connection with a decree of absolute divorce if the lending entity determines that the assuming borrower qualifies for the loan.

These legislative developments also highlight how deeply divorce can affect long-term financial stability, especially when shared property and mortgage obligations are involved. When one spouse seeks to retain ownership of the marital home after a divorce decree, the process often requires careful legal and financial coordination to avoid future disputes or lending complications.

In many of these situations, families turn to experienced counsel from Bruce Law Firm, P.A. lawyers to navigate property division matters, mortgage assumption agreements, and the broader legal concerns that arise during divorce proceedings.

Family lawyers continue to play an essential role in protecting parental rights, financial interests, and household stability during periods of major transition. What was initially agreed upon may require closer review to ensure it still functions as intended when applied in practice, particularly where shared assets or ongoing financial obligations are involved.

In these moments, legal guidance can help clarify how existing terms should be understood and whether any adjustments or formal steps are necessary to avoid future conflict. Knutson and Casey works with individuals navigating family law matters by providing direct attorney involvement and tailored support aimed at addressing the specific details of each case, helping clients move through these transitions with greater clarity and direction.

Careful attention at this stage can help prevent uncertainty from developing into disputes later on.

While the General Assembly is out of session, Congress in Washington, D.C. is considering federal legislation that will impact your small business. Take action here to see what federal legislation is currently being considered.