More Power for Maryland Home Care Providers

August 23, 2007

Some 4,000 independent home care providers in Maryland can now join a union and bargain collectively with the state over working conditions, thanks to an Executive Order recently signed by Gov. Martin O’Malley (D).

The providers work in the homes of some 20,000 seniors and others with disabilities who would otherwise live in nursing homes or state facilities. With home care costs averaging $4,000 per year, compared to nursing home expenses of $55,000 to $65,000 annually, the providers’ work saves the state millions of dollars every year.

With the Executive Order in place, the providers – who have been organizing with AFSCME Council 67 for four years – have the power to negotiate reimbursement rates, payment schedules and benefits. “I love my work,” says Baltimore provider Audra Feldman. “I do it because I love to help people stay in their own homes and live their lives with dignity. I know I won’t get rich doing this work, but I need to earn enough money so I can support my family.”

AFSCME represents 75,000 home care workers in public and private facilities – and independent providers in three states. Most of them are represented by United Domestic Workers of America (UDW)-NUHHCE, an AFSCME affiliate in California.

To read about home care providers who have chosen to build a union with AFSCME, visit the Home Care section of our site or read the Public Employee article, “Standing Up & Speaking Out.”