Staffing and a Livable Wage: Too much to ask?

 

Dear AFT Healthcare-Maryland Member, 

 

Much has happened in the last few weeks while we have been at the negotiating table with the State. In a short amount of time, the Department of Health has been found in contempt by a Judge for failing to provide beds and staffing at Clifton T Perkins Hospital and Spring Grove Hospital. Read the full order here. A story in the Baltimore Sun about assaults on employees at Spring Grove is prompting the legislature to hold hearings to investigate the matter. 

 

You have told us that the first step in addressing the staffing crisis is a fair and equitable wage increase. That’s why we put on the table a demand for a 3.5% across-the-board wage increase as well as a fully funded step increase. 

 

We demanded a grade increase for all nursing classifications. Maryland nurses have fallen far behind their counterparts in local government and dramatically behind their counterparts in the private sector. 

 

Last week the State proposed no increase in the upcoming fiscal year. In the fiscal year 2020, they proposed a scheme that was contingent on general fund revenues dramatically surpassing estimates. The State’s proposal was so uncertain that the criteria for a raise would have been met in just 3 of the last six years—we might as well flip a coin for a raise if the State had its way. That’s not a fair and equitable wage increase. That’s not a plan that will address the staffing crisis. 

 

You deserve more respect and certainty. That’s why we continue to push for a guaranteed increase for everyone in the unit.

 

 

The next bargaining session is Wednesday, October 25th. We will continue to press the case for a fair and equitable wage increase, protecting your rights, and fighting for a healthy and safe working environment. As always, I will keep you up to date on the progress we make at the bargaining table. 

 

The State needs to hear your voice. Don’t forget to share with me what a fair and equitable wage increase means to you, and share your thoughts with your coworkers too. 

 

Click here to view upcoming events. If your agency isn’t listed, click here to contact MPEC HQ to help with setting up meetings at your agency.

 

 

 

In Solidarity,