Maryland State Wire

The Everyone Votes Maryland Coalition, comprising over 20 organizations focused on improving voting access and the election process, is urging the Maryland General Assembly to implement significant reforms in the 2025 legislative session. The coalition's call comes amidst concerns over potential threats to voting rights from the incoming federal administration and a substantial state budget shortfall.

The coalition's primary objectives include passing the Maryland Voting Rights Act (MDVRA), addressing special elections for legislative vacancies, and enacting the Voting Rights for All Act. These measures aim to protect and expand voting rights across the state.

Joanne Antoine, Executive Director of Common Cause Maryland, emphasized the importance of these reforms: “While Congress seeks to take away voting rights, we have an opportunity to defend and strengthen access to the ballot in Maryland.”

Maryland is known for its diversity but faces racial disparities in voter registration and turnout. The MDVRA package includes four bills designed to ensure that Black, Latino, Asian American voters, and those with disabilities can participate fully in elections without discrimination. This legislation would enhance election transparency, prohibit vote suppression, and prevent discriminatory systems that could undermine voters' voices.

Ralikh Hayes from the Legal Defense Fund highlighted public support for these changes: “Strong voting rights ensure democracy works for everyone.” He noted that recent research shows broad backing among Maryland voters for a MDVRA.

Another priority is creating special elections to fill legislative vacancies. Currently, replacements are chosen by a small group of political insiders. Nikki Tyree of the League of Women Voters of Maryland criticized this process as undemocratic: “Disregarding the voter is the antithesis of Democracy.”

Additionally, the Voting Rights for All Act aims to repeal restrictions on voting by incarcerated adults serving felony sentences. Trina Selden from Out for Justice argued against disenfranchisement: “Voting is a cornerstone of democracy, and no one should lose their voice because they are incarcerated.”

The Everyone Votes Maryland Coalition stresses that these legislative priorities are crucial amid anticipated federal rollbacks on voting rights. Michelle Whittaker from Ranked Choice Voting Maryland remarked on their importance: “Democracy reforms are not a wishlist; they are essential policies with broad support from the public.”

The coalition continues its efforts toward increasing ballot access statewide.