MD HB1042

Prohibits candidates and their representatives (campaign staff, volunteers, affiliated individuals) from serving as authorized agents to pick up and deliver absentee ballots for voters

Creates an exception allowing family members of candidates to designate that candidate or their representative as an agent for the family member's own absentee ballot

Requires specimen ballots to conspicuously display information about the rules governing authorized agents for absentee ballot pickup and delivery

Violations of absentee ballot provisions carry penalties of up to $1,000 fine or imprisonment up to 2 years, or both

Takes effect October 1, 2025, with the State Board of Elections required to adopt implementing regulations by January 1, 2026