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Bill > HB101
MD HB101
MD HB101Public Broadcasters - Debate for Candidates for Statewide Office - Required Participants
summary
Introduced
01/14/2026
01/14/2026
In Committee
01/14/2026
01/14/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Requiring a public broadcaster that holds a debate between candidates for statewide office to invite all candidates who are certified to the ballot in the general election subject to certain requirements; prohibiting a public broadcaster from using or receiving State funds for the remainder of the fiscal year under certain circumstances; requiring the Governor to approve an amended appropriation to reappropriate State funds from a public broadcaster under certain circumstances; etc.
AI Summary
This bill requires public broadcasters, defined as entities receiving state funds, to invite all certified candidates for statewide office to participate in debates for general elections, ensuring equitable opportunities for each candidate and prohibiting eligibility based on fundraising, party affiliation, or polling numbers, though write-in candidates or those who have suspended their campaigns are exempt. If a public broadcaster violates these requirements, they will be prohibited from using state funds for the remainder of that fiscal year, and any remaining state funds will be reappropriated to another program.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
House Government, Labor, and Elections Hearing (14:00:00 2/4/2026 ) (on 02/04/2026)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0101?ys=2026RS |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/bills/hb/hb0101f.pdf |
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