AFT-Maryland rallied with the national AFT office and a host of activists as the Supreme Court heard opening arguments in the Janus v. AFSCME 31 case. The case centers on Mark Janus, an Illinois child support specialist, being unwilling to pay his fair share as a non-union member although the union negotiated and bargained for the benefits he enjoys as an employee of the state.

In addition to a number of national labor unions in attendance including AFT, AFSCME, and SEIU, there were also a host of civil rights organizations and allies to labor unions who showed up that day. The Alliance to

BCFPE President, John Ripley, was in Annapolis lobbying for members of the Baltimore County Federation of Public Employees. He testified to different Senate and House committees and held conversations with state leaders all for the benefit of county public employees. His goals during the meetings and conversations were to make sure the needs of municipal employees were not only heard but also considered at the state level.

BCFPE represents a diverse array of public workers employed by Baltimore County. Many of the decisions governing their work status and situation are made at the county level

City Union of Baltimore (CUB) President Antoinette Ryan-Johnson went to Annapolis to testify on behalf of her members and the employees of Baltimore City in support of a bill that would provide property tax credits to city employees who are among the lowest 25% earners. Ryan-Johnson’s testimony highlighted the number of city employees who would love to own homes in the city but simply cannot afford to do so. She mentioned the wealth creation that home ownership provides as well as how this bill could bring city employees priced out of the city back while allowing them an opportunity to own

Leadership and representatives from the unions that make up the AFT-Maryland engaged with state elected officials at their annual Legislative Reception. Members and leaders met with delegates and state senators to discuss issues and bills of importance to their members. Speaker of the House Michael Busch made an appearance at the event and chatted with AFT-Maryland President Marietta English. Leadership from MPEC, BCFPE, CUB, and AFT Healthcare Maryland were all in attendance to discuss important issues with legislators.

Members were also in attendance and they had the opportunity to meet with