Maryland Senate Bill SB9

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23

Caption

State Personnel – Executive Branch Service Contracts – Policy, Certification, and Notification

Impact

This legislation is expected to transform the framework within which the state approaches the procurement of services. By enabling the Board of Public Works to approve service contracts based on certification from the Department of Budget and Management, the bill could lead to increased outsourcing of services that were previously designated for public employment. Supporters of the bill argue that this could enhance efficiency and potentially reduce costs, while others express concerns over the implications for state employment levels and job security.

Summary

Senate Bill 9 aims to alter Maryland's policy regarding the employment of state personnel for state functions, particularly in regards to service contracts. The bill proposes the repeal of the existing requirement that state employees must perform functions in state-operated facilities. Instead, it allows for the authorization of service contracts by the Board of Public Works upon receiving specific certifications, thus shifting the preference from state employees to possibly engaging private contractors for these services.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB9 revolve around the potential impact on state employees and the historical preference for utilizing them for state functions. Critics worry that the bill may lead to job losses or diminished rights for public sector workers, as it allows for a greater reliance on external contractors. Furthermore, the certification process for approving such contracts raises questions about transparency and oversight, as it could result in decisions being made without sufficient input from affected stakeholders.