The Prince George's County Council convened on June 10, 2025, to discuss significant collective bargaining agreements affecting local law enforcement and correctional officers. The meeting, held as a Committee of the Whole, focused on two key bills: CB 57 and CB 59.
CB 57 pertains to the collective bargaining agreement between Prince George's County and the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 89. This agreement covers fiscal years 2025 and 2026 and includes provisions for wage increases. Specifically, it outlines a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 2.25% for fiscal year 2025 and 2.5% for fiscal year 2026, along with a regular merit increase of 3.5% on the anniversary of each officer's hire date. The committee voted unanimously, 9-0, in favor of this bill, which was sponsored by several council members, including Watson, Olson, Legay, Hawkins, Ivy, and Dernoga.
Similarly, CB 59 addresses the collective bargaining agreement with the Prince George's Correctional Officers Association. This agreement also covers fiscal year 2026 and includes similar wage provisions, including a 3.5% merit increase for both fiscal years. The committee again voted 9-0 in favor of this bill, with sponsorship from council members Watson, Olson, Lugay, Orieta, Donoga, and Hawkins.
In addition to these agreements, the council introduced CB 16, which aims to prohibit the county police and fire departments from disqualifying applicants for uniform positions based solely on a positive screening for cannabis or marijuana. This bill is part of ongoing efforts to reform employment practices within public safety sectors.
The council's decisions reflect a commitment to improving compensation for public safety personnel while also addressing modern employment standards. The next steps will involve further discussions and public input on these proposed changes.