First, allow me to present a brief history. In 1969, a group of local union leaders met to form the State Association. Their rationale was to create an umbrella organization to deal with state wide issues and provide a forum for discussion and exchange of information between affiliates. The State Association in no way controls or directs the activities of your local union. In fact, local affiliates are not mandated to participate in the State Association.
Membership is entirely voluntary.
Our International is governed on the basis of local autonomy. Essentially, that means that each union is in control of its own affairs. Big brother from the International or State Association cannot dictate to your duly elected union officers how to run your union or establish internal priorities. You are the masters of your own destiny. That notwithstanding, all IAFF affiliates in Maryland and the District are members and active participants of the State Association.