Annapolis, April 13, 2009 – Maryland Council 67 spent many hours lobbying before the General Assembly. Glen S. Middleton, Executive Director of Council 67 stated, “It’s finally the time for our lawmakers to make the right decision on behalf of State workers. Now is the time for everyone to pay their fare share!” On Monday, the House of Delegates passed the “Fair Share Bill”.

The House passed the bill with amendments and the Senate considered the bill late into the evening on the last day of the legislative session. Our persistence and commitment paid off and the bill was passed.

The bill states, nonunion employees will have to pay dues to be represented by the American Federation and State, County and Municipal Employees, ( AFSCME). Employees who do not pay dues and have the advantage of representation without a cost will now have to pay.

In an interview, Mr, Middleton also proclaimed about non-union employees, “They get all the benefits that the union negotiates, that the union members pay for, and they don’t contribute anything to that!”. But, on Monday , April 13th Governor Martin O’Malley signed the bill into state law.

Due to this act, Unions will have more power at the bargaining table and the work of the Union that preserves jobs and strongly influences wages will be supported by all workers. Many workers do not understand the strength of the Union and how all workers are protected by the collective bargaining agreement. All workers receive health coverage, improved working conditions, better salaries and representation before management as needed. This is because of the Union and due to the respect that we demand for our workers.

Now, all who benefit will be expected to support our Union as dues paying members. The voices of AFSCME in our State will be heard louder and stronger with the passage of the Fare Share Act.