Maryland Code, STATE PERSONNEL AND PENSIONS 8-104

state: means :

(1) a state, possession, territory, or commonwealth of the United States; or

(2) the District of Columbia. See

(a) (1) Pay rates in the Standard Pay Plan may be set by:

(i) a series of pay grades and steps within each grade;

(ii) fixed rates; or

(iii) minimum and maximum amounts.

(2) Pay rates in the Executive Pay Plan may be set by:

(i) a series of executive pay grades and steps within each grade;

(ii) fixed rates; or

(iii) minimum and maximum amounts.

(b) In setting or amending a pay rate, the Secretary shall consider:

(1) the prevailing pay rates for comparable services in private and public employment;

(2) experience;

(3) living costs;

(4) benefits; and

(5) the financial condition and policies of this State.