Union seeks nonmember fees

O'Malley backs AFSCME bid to collect from every state worker it represents

General Assembly 2009

AFSCME and the administration argued that because collective bargaining units are required to represent both members and nonmembers in contract negotiations and individual grievances, it is only fair that all employees pay.

But one union, the Maryland Classified Employees Association, opposed the bill. Critics argued that the legislation would force payroll deductions on employees who choose not to be part of the unions. It also could diminish the union's membership, as some might drop out so they wouldn't have to pay both dues and the fee.

"It's going to be goodbye to every other union, and we're going to end up with a monopoly," said Del. Steve Schuh, an Anne Arundel County Republican.

But AFSCME officials said their union was elected to be the exclusive collective bargaining unit for most employees. They said the increased revenue would allow the union to better represent employees and to do more education and training outreach.

"This is about democracy, bottom line," said AFSCME Maryland director Patrick Moran.

"If you don't like democracy, then I guess you don't like the country we live in."