Bill > H1539

This bill establishes comprehensive new rules for condominium association elections to enhance transparency, fairness, and democratic participation. The legislation mandates that elections will be decided by a plurality of ballots cast, including absentee ballots, with no quorum requirement. Proxy voting is prohibited, and unit owners must use specific absentee ballot procedures if they cannot attend in person. The bill requires a detailed election process, including two formal notices sent to unit owners: the first at least 45 days before the annual meeting calling for nominations, and a second 14 days prior listing candidates. Candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as being current on assessments and property taxes, and cannot have ongoing foreclosure actions. The bill introduces strict rules for candidate nominations, ballot preparation, and voting, including requiring an independent election inspector to oversee the process and ensure fairness. Candidates are given the opportunity to provide a one-page information sheet, and the election process includes provisions for candidates to address voters and observe ballot counting. If no unit owners are willing to serve on the board, non-unit owners may be considered, but unit owners are given preference. The bill also specifies that elected board members will immediately lose their position if their unit is foreclosed upon or sold, triggering a new election to fill the vacancy.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1539