Bill > SB337

This bill requires local boards of elections to significantly improve their transparency and public accessibility by mandating several key provisions. Each local board must now make its open meeting agenda and related materials publicly available on its website at least 48 hours before a meeting (or as soon as practicable for emergency meetings), including summaries of finalized documents and written public testimony. The boards are required to provide live video streaming of their open meetings, with exceptions for off-site meetings, project site visits, and inspections. Additionally, these boards must maintain a complete, unedited video recording of each streamed meeting for a minimum of 5 years after the meeting date. The State Board of Elections is tasked with adopting regulations by December 1, 2025, to ensure these streaming requirements maximize transparency. The bill will take effect on June 1, 2025, and aims to increase public understanding and oversight of local election board proceedings by making their meetings more accessible and their documentation more readily available to the public.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0337?ys=2025RS