Bill > HB1097

This bill establishes a Workgroup on Mail-In Ballot Accessibility to investigate and improve voting options for individuals with disabilities. The Workgroup will include 15 members, comprising legislators, state officials, and representatives from disability advocacy groups and election-related organizations. Members will be appointed by the Senate President, House Speaker, and Governor, with the Governor designating the chair. While members will not receive compensation, they will be reimbursed for expenses. The Workgroup's primary responsibilities include examining current mail-in ballot return processes, assessing their impact on voters with disabilities, researching accessible alternatives in other jurisdictions, and evaluating potential new methods of ballot return. The evaluation will consider factors such as accessibility, election security, potential discrimination, voters' ability to vote privately and independently, and implementation feasibility. By December 31, 2025, the Workgroup must submit a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly. The bill will take effect on June 1, 2025, and remain in effect until June 30, 2026, after which it will automatically be abrogated.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1097?ys=2025RS