MD HB1265

Requires candidates for elected office in Maryland to submit a signed truthfulness oath with their certificate of candidacy, pledging that all material provided to the public will be factually truthful to the best of their knowledge and belief

Candidates who sign the oath may face perjury charges, disqualification, or removal from office for knowingly disseminating false information about their employment history, criminal/civil legal history, or organizational affiliations

Candidates who decline to sign the truthfulness oath must instead sign an alternative statement explicitly declaring they choose not to affirm they will be truthful in factual disclosures during their campaign

Both the signed oath and certificate of candidacy documents are available for public inspection

Takes effect June 1, 2026, with a severability clause ensuring other provisions remain valid if any part is ruled unconstitutional