Particle.news
Get it on Google Play
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
3w ago

Baltimore Council Passes Bill to Boost Pay and Benefits for Commercial Security Officers

The measure now awaits Mayor Brandon Scott’s signature.

Standing in front of Francisco Romero, at-large executive board member for SEIU Local 32 BJ left and Tisha Burrell, security officer, Zeke Cohen, D-1, city council president of Baltimore speaks as Jermaine Jones, D-16 looks on during a press conference at City Hall to celebrate the passage of a bill to raise wages and benefits for commercial security officers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)

Overview

  • The ordinance requires employers to match either federal Service Contract Act standards or the citywide average for security compensation, whichever is higher.
  • Companies may meet the requirement through wages, benefits, paid time off, or equivalent cash payments.
  • Federally contracted rates cited by the council are $18.29 an hour plus a $5.55 health supplement, with 2–4 weeks of vacation and 11 paid holidays.
  • City and union estimates say nearly 4,500 guards could see increases, with many currently earning about $15.80 an hour.
  • Council President Zeke Cohen and Councilman Jermaine Jones joined 32BJ SEIU leaders to celebrate the vote, with supporters tying the move to turnover and safety concerns.