MD State Workers Win a Round But Still Face Budget Fight

Political action by AFSCME Maryland Council 3 convinced Gov. Larry Hogan to restore wage increases for state and higher education workers in his budget proposal from earlier negotiations, but members still face fights over proposed job cuts and privatization of state services. Besides restoring the step increases, Hogan’s budget released Jan. 20 does not resort to cuts in overtime pay and sick leave rights, which were in his original proposal. Council 3 also won improvements to the state’s new wellness plan, saving state and higher education workers money. Nearly 20 workers at DHMH braved the weather at their Lobby Night on Monday, January 25. 
photo: AFSCME members who work for the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene meet with state Sen. Roger Manno seeking his support for their fight against outsourcing their jobs. 
- Michael Byrne, AFSCME blog; photo courtesy AFSCME Maryland Council 3

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