MD SB259

Local boards of elections must submit comprehensive election plans to the State Board for approval at least 7 months (increased from 6 months) before each statewide primary election

Election plans must now include four components: a polling place plan, a ballot drop box plan, an early voting center plan, and an analysis of how to maximize voter participation in the county and each precinct

Local boards must maintain a public contact list and post proposed election plans on their website at least 14 days before meetings, with written notice to elected officials including mayors, county executives, county commissioners, council members, and General Assembly members

Early voting center locations must consider accessibility to historically disenfranchised communities, proximity to dense voter concentrations, public transportation access, equitable geographic distribution (for counties with 4+ centers), and use of community centers

The State Board must vote on and approve election plans only if they comply with legal requirements, have been reviewed by the State Administrator, and will not negatively affect access to voting for historically disenfranchised communities