Election Administration

LWVMD takes Action to assure an election system that is equitable, accessible, fiscally responsible, accountable and enforceable (1997 and 2001).

LWVMD opposes a requirement for uniform voting systems unless funded by the state. LWVMD Supports

• Mandatory training for all election judges with the state providing basic training instructions;
• A minimum compensation level for election judges set by the state;
• A restructured Maryland State Board of Elections (MSBE)-formerly the State Administrative Board of Election Laws (SABEL)
  1. (a) giving MSBE legal authority and adequate funding to enforce election laws and regulations
  2. (b) giving MSBE authority and funding to develop and maintain a centralized, computerized voter registration list and a centralized, computerized campaign finance reporting system
  3. (c) staggered terms for members of MSBE
  4. (d) a professional administrator hired by MSBE;
• Statewide uniformity of voting registration and registration records;
• A uniform, simple system for accurate identification of voters at the polls;
• A registration deadline set as close as possible to primary and general elections, consistent with technology that provides ballot security and makes the administration of the deadline cost-effective. ("Ballot security" assures ballot secrecy and prevents fraudulently cast ballots);
• Provisional ballots, with a strong preference that voters be notified if they are later found not eligible to vote. Provisional ballots allow a voter whose name is not listed on the polling place election register to vote a ballot which is sealed and segregated from regularly cast ballots until the election authority can confirm the voter's eligibility. They provide ballot security, are convenient for the voter and avoid disenfranchisement of voters due to administrative error;
• Early voting, but at a limited number of sites in order to assure ballot security;
• A permanent application list for absentee voters who affirm that they have a permanent physical condition which necessitates absentee voting. Election authorities would then automatically send to those voters applications for absentee ballots. A permanent application list, restricted to those with disabling physical conditions, fosters access of the disabled to voting, and provides ballot security;
• Study, research and pilot projects to determine the feasibility of Internet voting.