Last week, 5,000 Kids First Maryland/SEIU Local 500 child care providers voted by a margin of more than 30-to-1 to ratify their first contract. After 14 months of negotiations, providers won an increase in subsidy rates without an increase in parent co-pays; accountability for late payments from the state; and access to important decision-making bodies in the child care system.

"It's a historic moment. Providers who help raise and educate Maryland's most vulnerable children now have a seat at the table," explains Merle Cuttitta, President of SEIU Local 500, of the new contract that will cover providers who participate in the state subsidy program. Local 500 child care providers first voted to form a union with SEIU in September 2007 after they gained collective bargaining rights through an executive order signed by Gov. Martin O'Malley.

« Read a letter from the bargaining team & contract highlights.
« Learn more about SEIU Kids First