Baltimore Mayor Signs Bill Raising Wages for Security Guards

New law affects around 4,500 security workers in the city

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has signed a new bill into law that will raise wages and improve benefits for approximately 4,500 security guard workers across the city. The bill mandates that security guards be paid at least the average wage earned in large commercial buildings or the federal standard, whichever is higher.

Why it matters

This legislation aims to provide better compensation and more dignity for security guards, who are often the first line of defense at important public institutions like schools, hospitals, and city hall. The move is part of the mayor's broader efforts to invest in Baltimore's workforce and improve quality of life for workers.

The details

The new law requires security guard employers to pay workers higher wages that match either the average wage earned in large commercial buildings or the federal standard, whichever is higher. Mayor Scott emphasized that these workers deserve fair compensation as well as dignity and respect for the critical roles they play in the community.

  • Mayor Brandon Scott signed the bill into law on Monday, March 10, 2026.

The players

Mayor Brandon Scott

The current mayor of Baltimore, Maryland, who signed the new bill raising wages for security guards into law.

Baltimore City Council

The city council members who celebrated the passage of the bill raising the minimum wage for security guards in Baltimore.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“They show up early; they stay way late.”

— Mayor Brandon Scott (wbal.com)

“Baltimore is at its best when it invests in its people.”

— Mayor Brandon Scott (wbal.com)

“It's about dignity and respect.”

— Mayor Brandon Scott (wbal.com)

What’s next

The new law is expected to go into effect in the coming months, providing higher wages and improved benefits for the approximately 4,500 security guards working across Baltimore City.

The takeaway

This legislation represents an important step by the Baltimore city government to invest in and support its workforce, particularly those in critical public-facing roles like security guards. By mandating higher wages and better benefits, the city is aiming to provide more dignity and respect for these essential workers.