Bill > SB171

This bill establishes detailed procedures for political party central committees to fill vacancies in the Maryland General Assembly (State Senate or House of Delegates). The bill requires that the application period for filling a legislative vacancy be at least 7 days long and that public notice must be advertised in a conspicuous manner, including details about the meeting, vacancy filling process, and application methods. If the local election board is required to translate election materials under the Federal Voting Rights Act, the notice must also be translated into that language. All applications must be posted online promptly after the deadline and remain available for at least 30 days after the vote. The central committee must hold a public meeting to interview applicants, with the meeting announced at least 3 days in advance and open to the public. The vote to fill the vacancy must be conducted by roll call or signed ballot in an open meeting. Additionally, any central committee member who applies for the vacancy must recuse themselves from administering the selection process and from voting. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to increase transparency in the process of filling legislative vacancies.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0171?ys=2025RS