Bill > HB253

This bill modifies Maryland election laws to improve voting access for pretrial detainees, specifically those in the Baltimore City centralized booking facility. The legislation requires the Baltimore City centralized booking facility to provide a secure, 24/7 monitored ballot drop box where eligible voters (individuals incarcerated at the facility who have the right to vote) can submit election-related materials like absentee ballots and voter registration forms. The State Board of Elections must provide the ballot drop box and written notifications, and the state will cover the cost of the drop box. Additionally, the bill mandates that for registered voters in pretrial detention, the State Board or local boards must automatically send absentee ballots without requiring a separate application, ensuring they receive the ballot with sufficient time to return it before Election Day. The local board of elections in Baltimore City must collect materials from the drop box at least weekly and submit an annual report detailing the number of ballots and materials received. The bill aims to facilitate voting for incarcerated individuals by removing barriers to ballot access and will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0253?ys=2025RS