Maryland State Board of Elections

The board meeting focused on the state administrator's report, which included updates on the primary election, voter turnout, mail-in ballot processing, and the implementation of the new 'Go Vote MD' mobile application. Key discussion items involved testing of voting systems, campaign finance reporting, personnel updates at local election offices, and ongoing procurements for voting and voter registration systems. Members also discussed election infrastructure, including backup power solutions for election headquarters, ballot curing processes, and the necessity for a transparent, independent review regarding mail-in ballot issues.

The board discussed the resolution of canvassing issues concerning mail-in ballots. Key topics included the legal framework for administering mail-in voting under election law, the processing and security of original and replacement ballots, and the issuance of communications to voters regarding replacement ballots. Staff provided detailed instructions on canvassing procedures and addressed security measures implemented to maintain the integrity of the election.

The meeting agenda includes reports from the State Administrator and Assistant Attorney General, consideration of late fee waiver requests under Title 13 and Title 14, and deliberation on final regulations concerning polling place cell phone use, early ballot canvass waiver processes, post-election verification, polling place notice provisions, warehouse regulations, and ballot rejection criteria. Additionally, the meeting will cover a legislative update, old and new business, disclosure of campaign contributions, and the scheduling of the next meeting.

The agenda covers several key operational and regulatory matters, including the State Administrator's and Assistant Attorney General's reports, requests for late fee waivers for Title 13 and Title 14 filings, and the administrative closure of campaign finance entities. The board will discuss manual audit selection delegation and review final and COMAR regulations regarding registration lists, voter registration applications, early voting, campaign suspension, storage facilities, order and decorum, and canvassing procedures for elections and post-election audits.

The board convened for a special meeting, which included a closed session for the purpose of receiving legal advice. The agenda also provided for the potential scheduling of an additional meeting.