Bill > HB50

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to change how vacancies in the Maryland General Assembly (the state legislature, composed of Delegates and Senators) are filled. Currently, when a Delegate or Senator leaves office, the Governor typically appoints a replacement based on recommendations from the political party's central committee. This bill would require that if a vacancy occurs on or before a specific deadline (55 days before the filing deadline for candidates in the regular statewide election held in the second year of a term), a special election must be held to fill that vacancy. This special election would take place concurrently with the regular statewide primary and general elections held in that second year of the term, ensuring that voters have a say in filling the vacant seat rather than relying solely on an appointment.