Election Law - Voter Registration List - Absentee Voters (Absentee Ballot Transparency Act of 2025)
Impact
If enacted, HB285 would alter existing laws regarding the confidentiality and distribution of voter registration data. Currently, there are restrictions on who can access voter information and for what purpose. This bill would relax some of these restrictions specifically for candidates, enabling them to obtain more detailed information. The implications of this could significantly change the political landscape during elections, as candidates would have direct access to voters who have shown an interest in participating through absentee voting.
Summary
House Bill 285, titled the 'Absentee Ballot Transparency Act of 2025', proposes significant changes to how absentee voter lists are managed in Maryland. The bill mandates that the State Board of Elections or local election boards provide candidates with lists of registered voters who have requested absentee ballots for upcoming elections. This means that candidates will have access to specific contact details, such as email addresses and phone numbers, of these voters if the information is available. This move aims to enhance transparency around absentee voting and ensure candidates can reach out to those who opt for absentee ballots.
Contention
One point of contention regarding HB285 centers on voter privacy and data security. Critics argue that providing candidates with contact information could lead to harassment or unwanted communication, which may deter voters from using absentee ballots. Proponents, on the other hand, assert that transparency is essential for a fair electoral process and that candidates should have the means to engage with voters effectively. This debate highlights the ongoing tension between ensuring voter privacy and promoting candidate outreach in the electoral process.