Voter rights are under attack all across the country. Decisions made by the Supreme Court have weakened the federal Voting Rights Act over the last 30 years. Legislation, like the SAVE Act, currently under consideration in Congress would further weaken the rights of voters.
Maryland can push back by passing its own Voting Rights Act. As the most diverse state on the East Coast, it’s more important than ever to protect all voters—especially Black, Latino, Asian American, and disabled voters—from discrimination in the electoral process.
Advancing Voting Rights in Maryland) would include the following provisions:
- Boost Election Transparency – Ensure local governments notify voters of key changes, reducing confusion and promoting public input. It also creates a statewide election database to improve best practices and enforcement.
- Prevent Vote Dilution & Suppression – Establish a clear, cost-effective process to identify and eliminate barriers that dilute votes or suppress participation in Maryland elections.
- Ensure Language Access – Require local governments to provide voting materials in languages spoken by at least 2% of a community, ensuring non-English speakers can fully participate.
- Stop Voter Intimidation – Give Marylanders the right to sue against voter intimidation, deception, or obstruction—critical in the face of rising disinformation and suppression tactics.
- Prevent Discrimination Before It Starts – Include “preclearance” to stop discriminatory election changes before they happen, avoiding costly, slow litigation.
By passing a strong Voting Rights law, Maryland can protect voters of color, regardless of shifts in federal law and solidify our leadership in providing equal access to the ballot box.
Your legislators are discussing important pieces of legislation that would lead to comprehensive reform and they need to hear that you support them strengthening Maryland’s voter protections. Sign below, and your email will go directly to your state legislators.