1. A. The designated representatives of the employer and of the exclusive representative shall:

   1. (1) Identify the participants for negotiations;
   2. (2) Establish the amount of release time for negotiating;
   3. (3) Set a tentative schedule and agenda for negotiations;
   4. (4) Establish any other matter deemed pertinent and necessary before beginning any other negotiation activities;
   5. (5) Meet at reasonable times and locations agreeable to all parties; and
   6. (6) Negotiate a written agreement by collective bargaining in good faith.

2. B. Negotiations shall address:

   1. (1) Wages;
   2. (2) Hours of work;
   3. (3) Other terms and conditions of employment; and
   4. (4) Any matter required by applicable law.

3. C. A party to collective bargaining negotiations may not be compelled to:

   1. (1) Agree to a proposal; or
   2. (2) Make a concession.
4. D. An employer may not be required to negotiate over any matter that is inconsistent with applicable law, but an employer may reach agreement regarding any such matter if it is understood that the agreement with respect to the matter cannot become effective unless the applicable law is amended by the General Assembly.

Authority: State Government Article, §§22-306(e)—22-205(e), Annotated Code of Maryland

Effective date: May 13, 2024 (51:9 Md. R. 441)

Regulation .01A amended effective July 21, 2025 (52:14 Md. R. 713)