Bill > SB5

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to change how vacancies in the Maryland General Assembly (Delegate or Senator) are filled. Currently, the Governor appoints someone to fill a vacancy, usually based on recommendations from the political party's central committee. This bill would require a special election to fill the vacancy if it occurs on or before a specific deadline, which is 55 days before the deadline to file candidacy for the regular statewide election held in the second year of a term. If the vacancy occurs after this deadline, the appointed individual would serve for the remainder of the term. The special election would be held concurrently with the regular statewide primary and general elections in that second year of the term, meaning voters would elect a replacement at the same time as other state officials. This change aims to ensure that voters have a more direct say in filling legislative vacancies when they occur sufficiently in advance of scheduled elections.

Education, Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0005?ys=2026RS