SEIU Local 500 Wins Expanded Job Security in Maryland General Assembly

If you needed proof that your voluntary COPE contributions make a difference, you got it this week when a bill initiated by SEIU Local 500 to protect job security for school system employees passed the General Assembly. It is soon expected to be signed by Governor Martin O’Malley.

The legislation overturns a decade-old decision by the State Board of Education, and restores to MCPS supporting services staff the right to bargain for a grievance procedure with final and binding arbitration for discipline and discharge.

“Our MCPS membership enjoyed this protection for over twenty-five years, before an anti-union state Board of Education took it away,” stated Local 500 President Merle Cuttitta. “We are grateful to the General Assembly – especially to Senator Catherine Pugh and Delegate Craig Rice, the lead sponsors on the legislation – for restoring this important right to our members.”

COPE funds played a key role in electing pro-worker candidates to federal office, like President Barack Obama and Congresswoman Donna Edwards. They also work at the state and local levels to elect leaders and pass legislation that make a difference for working families.

This victory would not have been possible without COPE. Your contributions helped elect legislators who value and respect your hard work, and who are willing to fight for you against anti-worker policies.

If you have not signed up for COPE yet, please do so today, by contacting Local 500 at (301) 740-7100 or via email at chenaultm@seiu500.org.