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Union advocates, labor groups push binding arbitration bill as universities and system oppose
Summary
Delegate Lewis told the Appropriations Committee House Bill 159 would introduce binding interest arbitration as a method to resolve impasses in state employee contract negotiations, pairing statutory changes with a constitutional amendment.
Delegate Lewis presented House Bill 159, the Arbitration Reform for State Employees Act of 2025, to the Appropriations Committee. The sponsor said the bill combines a constitutional amendment and statutory changes to permit binding interest arbitration to resolve contract impasses between the state (including higher education) and represented employees. As drafted, parties would agree on an arbitrator by July 15, conclude negotiations by September 30, declare impasse by October 1 if no agreement exists, and receive a final arbitral determination by December 15.
Union leaders and public‑sector labor advocates gave extensive testimony in favor. Denise Gilmore of AFSCME Council 3 said many Maryland counties and transit…
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