Delegate Williams advocates for curbside voting pilot program in Maryland

The Maryland General Assembly's Education, Energy, and Environment Committee convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss House Bill 317, which proposes a pilot program for curbside voting in the state. Delegate Nicole Williams presented the bill, emphasizing its potential to enhance voting access for individuals with mobility limitations.

The proposed legislation aims to establish designated curbside voting locations during primary and general elections, which local boards must identify at least six months in advance, pending state board approval. Williams highlighted that curbside voting is already implemented in 27 states and the District of Columbia, providing a necessary option for voters who face physical challenges when accessing traditional polling places.

Williams noted that while mail-in voting exists, not all voters automatically receive ballots, which can disenfranchise those unable to navigate polling locations. Statistics from the Election Assistance Commission indicated that only 62% of voters with disabilities participated in the 2020 election, suggesting that additional voting methods could improve turnout among this demographic.

The bill also includes an amendment to clarify that curbside voting is particularly intended for individuals with disabilities, limited mobility, and elderly voters. However, anyone can utilize this method, as the bill avoids restricting access to comply with federal laws.

Committee members engaged in discussions about the logistics of curbside voting, comparing it to drive-thru services seen in other sectors. Williams explained that election officials would be stationed at designated locations, allowing voters to check in and cast their votes from their vehicles.

The pilot program is designed to align with ongoing efforts by the state board of elections to procure new voting equipment, ensuring that the implementation of curbside voting is both effective and feasible.

The committee's deliberations on House Bill 317 reflect a significant step toward improving electoral access for Maryland residents, particularly those facing physical barriers to traditional voting methods. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential voting on the bill in upcoming sessions.