Declaration of Rights - Right to Organize

HB 37 proposes adding Article 49 to the Maryland Constitution, establishing that every person employed in Maryland has a fundamental right to organize, form unions, and bargain collectively with employers over compensation, hours, and working conditions. The amendment prohibits the state from denying, burdening, or abridging this right unless a compelling state interest justifies it using the least restrictive means possible. This would apply to all workers in Maryland, including both public and private sector employees, and would require voter approval in the November 2026 general election to become part of the state constitution. The bill does not create new laws but would amend the state constitution to enshrine this right.