; and (3) the continuity and stability of interstate Compact agency operations to the effect that such operations are not detrimental to any facet of the regional economy or to the ability of employees of the Federal, State, or local governments to conduct business. (b) Factors in making arbitration award An arbitrator rendering an arbitration award involving the employees of an interstate Compact agency operating in the national capital area must exclusively consider the following factors, in addition to the factors prescribed in subsection (c): (1) The existing wages, benefits, and terms and conditions of employment of the employees in the bargaining unit except that structural changes should be awarded to the benefit of an interstate Compact agency operating in the national capital area where such changes are consistent with the public welfare. (2) The reasonably available and ongoing financial resources of the interstate Compact agency, taking into account the liabilities and obligations (including capital needs, legacy benefit obligations, and reserve levels) of the interstate Compact agency, based on the agency’s budget for the current year and its projected budget for the next 10 years. (3) The annual increase or decrease in consumer prices for goods and services as reflected in the most recent Consumer Price Index for the Washington-Baltimore, DC–MD–VA–WV Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area, published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. (4) The wages, benefits, and terms and conditions of the employment of other employees in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia whose positions require qualifications and skills similar to those required by employees in the bargaining unit except that an arbitrator rendering an arbitration award involving the employees of an interstate Compact agency operating in the national capital area may not consider the wages, benefits, and terms and conditions of employment of employees working outside of the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. (5) The