The Board of Public Works discussed a Voluntary Separation Program for State Employees at their January 7, 2015 meeting. This action is being proposed to eliminate approximately 1,000 positions in state government to reduce funding in the FY 2015 Budget, which ends June 30, 2015. The Voluntary Separation Program will have similar components as the previous program. Details will be forthcoming.
MCEA LEGISLATIVE REPORT
WEEK OF JANUARY 9, 2015
The 2015 Session of the Maryland General Assembly begins on January 14, 2015 at 12 noon. As part of the service MCEA provides to members, we will provide a weekly activity report.
PENDING LEGISLATION: There are no pre-filed bills relating to state or university employees at this time.
It is with deep sorrow and regret that Linda Day, President of the Maryland Classified Employees Association (MCEA) must announce the passing of Byron J. Johnson (BJ). Our hearts and prayers go out to his family, friends and union brothers and sisters.
Members of our locals celebrate the holidays in many ways. On Friday, December 5th, members of the City Union of Baltimore gathered for their annual holiday party and program at the IBEW Local 24 Union Hall in Baltimore.
The Maryland Classified Employees Association convened in Ocean City, MD in the middle of October for their annual convention. The purpose of the gathering was expressed in the motto “Reclaiming the Promise of Quality Public Service for Strong Communities.” President Linda Day presided over the conference and saw that the events ran smoothly. Union business was the order of the day for the convention as votes were held, debates were had and officers were elected. Returning members to the board included Brenda Baskin, Anadi Naik, Dale Maddox, and Barbara Thompson. Marion Jones, Raymond Benson and Agnes Valenzia were re-elected while Anna Custer was elected to the board.
Community Action Updates from Maryland's Senate and House:
Jack Nelson, Exective Director, and Debra Truit, President of Chapter #72, attended a fundraiser for Delegate Adelaide Eckart on September 6, 2014, Ms. Eckart is running for the State Senate, District 37
The J. Millard Tawes Crab and Clam Bake event was held in Crisfield MD. on July 16, 2014. The annual event was a huge success. The event is always a crowd pleaser with many members and special guests. Some of this year's Special guests included
Senator Jim Mathias, Delegate Norman Conway, and
University of Maryland Eastern
Carroll County Government and MCEA has entered into another Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The Agreement takes effect from June 19, 2014 and will expire on June 30, 2016. MCEA Chief Negotiator, Michael Keeney extends his thanks to the Carroll County Commissioners along with the Carroll County Office of Human Resources for finalizing yet another successful MOU.