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MD SB29

MD SB29
Election Law - Petitions and Ballot Questions - Contents, Plain Language Requirement, and Procedures


summary

Introduced
01/14/2026
In Committee
04/11/2026
Crossed Over
02/05/2026
Passed
05/12/2026
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
05/12/2026

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Altering the information that is required to be included on the signature page of a petition seeking to place a question on the ballot and with a question on the ballot; requiring that a certain summary included on the signature page of a petition seeking to place a question on the ballot and a certain statement about a question on the ballot be written in plain language; requiring certain boards of elections to post the text of ballot measures for at least 90 days before the general election; etc.

AI Summary

This bill aims to improve the clarity and accessibility of information related to ballot questions and petitions by requiring that summaries and statements about ballot questions be written in plain language, meaning they should be easily understandable by voters and avoid legal jargon, double negatives, or the passive voice. It also mandates that the full text of ballot measures be posted by boards of elections for at least 90 days before a general election, providing more time for public review and comment on proposed changes to laws or the constitution. Additionally, the bill modifies the content required on the signature pages of petitions, ensuring a clear title and a plain language summary of the proposal, along with a statement explaining the practical outcome of each voting choice, are included.

Committee Categories

Education, Government Affairs

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 439 (on 05/12/2026)

bill text


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