Call your union before you sign anything

Remember the days of lengthy investigations, when it would be months before you knew why you were disciplined? MCEA fought long and hard to reinforce your right to the "30-day" rule, meaning the clock started for an investigation when management knew of a violation. Personnel law requires that management conduct the investigation, meet with the employee, and consider mitigating circumstances within 30 days of the allegation or incident. MCEA took the issue all the way to the Court of Appeals, Maryland's highest court, and WON!

Certain supervisors, especially Wardens, are trying to turn back the clock. Is it because they know they can't win the case? Are they trying to buy more time to condemn an innocent officer or employee? Who knows? But make them follow the rules. Don't be intimidated into signing away your rights. If you are asked to sign a waiver of your rights, call your Labor Relations Specialist IMMEDIATELY for advice FIRST. If you are not allowed the opportunity to meet or talk with your union representative, decline to sign until you do so.