Bill > HB215

This bill introduces two main changes to Maryland election law. First, it allows the State Board of Elections to implement ranked-choice voting (RCV) for presidential nomination contests beginning with the 2028 statewide primary election. Ranked-choice voting is a method where voters can rank candidates in order of preference, and votes are tabulated to reflect those preferences, potentially providing a more nuanced representation of voter sentiment. If the State Board decides to use RCV, they must develop and fund a voter education campaign to inform voters about the new voting method and submit a report to the Governor and General Assembly by January 1, 2029, reviewing the implementation and offering recommendations for future use. The second part of the bill establishes regulations for election-supporting technology, defining it as equipment or technology used in election administration (such as electronic pollbooks and risk-limiting audit tools), and requiring the State Board to adopt regulations for reviewing, certifying, and decertifying such technology. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving election officials ample time to prepare for potential changes in voting procedures.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0215?ys=2025RS