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Over 100 union members call for improved safety protocols, safer staffing levels, and accountability from state leaders during rally outside Catonsville District Court

Contract contains 6% in pay raises, increased shift differentials and pay premiums, additional benefits, and expanded workplace rights

On Monday Jan. 15, 2018, a holiday celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a coalition of union and non-union workers, activists, elected officials, and small business owners gathered in Annapolis to kick off the “Fight For $15” statewide campaign, calling on elected officials in Annapolis to raise the minimum wage during the Maryland Legislative Session, which began on Jan. 10 and will end in April.
Patrick Moran, president of AFSCME Council 3, which represents the largest group of affected workers, credited union members with forging the agreement and noted that Hogan tried to rescind a promised raise for state employees in his first year in office.
Sue Esty, legislative and political director for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) 3, one of the unions representing state workers, described the situation as being “at a crisis level.”
AFSCME Council 3 President Patrick Moran said the agreement was the result of persistence from union members.
Patrick Moran is president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, which has been outspoken on the need in the state for more available beds for mental health patients.
Legislation sponsored last spring by Del. Mike McKay, R-Washington/Allegany, required Maryland's Division of Corrections and the union representing prison staff to perform a joint analysis of staffing needs throughout the state by Oct. 31.
Fact-finders brought into collective bargaining talks between the state and its employee unions have recommended wage increases for the union members — and rejected the Hogan administration’s proposal to make raises contingent upon the state exceeding revenue projections.
Students and union workers represented by AFSCME Local 1072 unfurled two banners during a rally at the University of Maryland College Park campus last Friday, demanding higher pay and an end to parking fees.