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MD SB66

Election Law - Polling Place Procedures - Voting by Elderly Voters and Voters With Disabilities (Accessible and Expedited Voting Act of Maryland)


summary

Introduced
01/08/2025
In Committee
01/08/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
04/08/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Requiring the State Board of Elections to establish guidelines for the local boards of election to implement a process to accommodate and expedite voting for elderly voters and voters with disabilities at each early voting center and polling place; requiring the local boards to implement the guidelines and collect feedback on the process from elderly voters and voters with disabilities and make immediate adjustments to the process; etc.

AI Summary

This bill establishes new guidelines to improve voting accessibility and efficiency for elderly voters (defined as 65 years or older) and voters with disabilities at polling places and early voting centers in Maryland. The State Board of Elections must create statewide guidelines that include dedicated expedited lines, clearly marked signage indicating available services, priority seating in waiting areas, and specific provisions for high-traffic voting locations. Election judges will receive uniform training on assisting these voter groups, including understanding their rights and best practices for accommodation. Local election boards are required to implement these guidelines, collect feedback from elderly and disabled voters during the voting process, and make immediate adjustments as needed. The State Board must also submit an annual report to the General Assembly detailing challenges, effectiveness, voter feedback, and recommendations for improving the guidelines. These new procedures will be first implemented in the statewide primary election in 2026 and will take effect on July 1, 2025, with no requirement to implement the guidelines in special elections before 2026.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Senate Education, Energy, and the Environment Hearing (14:00:00 2/5/2025 ) (on 02/05/2025)

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