Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends the Maryland state constitution to require special elections to occur at the same time as regular elections, with exceptions.

Highlights:

• Authorizes the submission of a written decision by the Central Committee within 30 days after the Governor provides an individual appointment if a Delegate or Senator is unable to perform their duties (Sec. 1).

• Requires the Governor to perform these acts within 15 days if the appointee is of the same political party of the individual who left office (Sec.1).

• Requires Maryland counties and the Central Committee or committees to do the following (Sec. 1):

• If a vacancy occurs within a district in the same boundaries then the county will must provide a name of a resident of the district;

• If a vacancy occurs within a district comprising other specified boundaries then the county must provide a name of a resident of the district; and

• If a vacancy occurs in a portion or all of two or more counties then each county will submit one vote, and if a tie occurs within the Central Committee then the Governor will make an appointment from a specified list.

• Specifies that an appointee must serve until the successor is elected (Sec.1).

• Specifies that the rest of the term must be completed if the vacancy occurs 55 days before the filing certification for candidacy if held in the second year of the term (Sec.1).

• Specifies if vacancy occurs on or before the 55 day mark for the certification filling then the Governor can issue a demand after the vacancy asking for a special primary election that will occur with the regular statewide election during the second year of the term (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that the provisions of this Act must be submitted to the electorate of Maryland at the next general election to be held in November 2026 for adoption or rejection (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text