Bill > HB75

This bill modifies Maryland's election law regarding special elections to fill vacancies in county councils or executive offices. The bill establishes new requirements for scheduling special elections, including mandating that the election date must be at least 90 days after the county council's resolution establishing the election, cannot be within 120 days of a regularly scheduled election, and must allow at least 45 days for absentee voting by military and overseas voters. The bill also gives the State Administrator the authority to conduct a special election entirely according to state law if there is a conflict between county charter regulations and state election regulations. Additionally, the bill updates vote-by-mail procedures, extending the timeline for mailing ballots from 14 to 30 days before the election and adding ballot drop boxes as an additional method for voters to return mail-in ballots. The legislation is classified as an emergency measure, meaning it was passed with a three-fifths majority and will take effect immediately upon enactment. These changes aim to provide more clarity and flexibility in conducting special elections while ensuring proper voter access and administrative oversight.

Budget and Finance, Education

Ways and Means (H)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0075?ys=2025RS