The complete re-write of Laurel’s elections laws are back before Council this coming week (following their first appearance earlier this year on February 5).

There’s 45+ pages of documents and edits, much of it typographical and syntax related, but also with some significant changes/ deletions/ and new additions. You can find the official version on the City’s Meetings page (look for meeting packets for April 28).

Below I’ve provided a summary of what I read as the more significant changes being proposed, and also to solicit your thoughts and feedback for consideration:

  1. When can candidates apply to run for office? – Right now the Code provides that candidates can apply through the last Friday in September. The draft proposes that candidates apply by a date set by the Board of Elections, but no later than the first Friday in August.

  2. When can candidates begin campaign activities? – Right now the Code doesn’t speak directly to the question, but the City has applied the practice of prohibiting campaign activities until the Board of Elections certifies a candidate’s application (which would be estimated around mid-August given the proposal in #1 above).

  3. Who can candidates appeal to if they differ in opinion with a judgement made by the City Board of Elections? – Right now the Code provides that a candidate can appeal to the City’s Board of Appeals. The draft proposes a candidate would instead to appeal to the Prince George’s County Circuit Court.

  4. Can a candidate function as their own campaign Treasurer? – Right now the Code doesn’t speak directly to the question. One draft proposes that a candidate cannot function as their own Treasurer. It also requires a separate bank account to be opened by a candidate’s political committee (and not co-mingle with personal funds).

  5. When can campaign signs first appear around town? – Right now the Code doesn’t speak directly to the question. The draft proposes not displaying campaign signs any earlier than 45-days before Election Day.

Because the City election laws affect basically everybody (covering who can vote, how, who can run for office, how, etc.), it’s one of those items I’d highly encourage folks to engage with. You may already have opinions on City election procedure based on your own experience — If so, I’d very much be interested to hear it. And you may read parts of the documents you’re most interested in and have a question or concern — I would very much like to listen.

My goal at the end of the day is: (a) there’s a process that’s clear and easily understood, (b) everyone has an even field, (c) residents' voting rights are respected, and (d) there’s a simple path to the best possible outcome for our City every two and four years.

Please feel free to reach out directly to me to share any thoughts or questions, and you are also invited to join us for the upcoming meetings to hear Council’s conversations about and to add your voice:

– Special Work Session on Monday, April 28 from 5 - 6 p.m. at the Municipal Center. (Note: There’s no “public comment” portion to the Work Session itself, but you’ll hear initial conversation among Councilmembers, plus there’s a public comment portion in the regular meeting scheduled immediately after.)

– Regular Council Meeting on Monday, April 28 from 6 - 8:00 p.m. at the Municipal Center. (Note: This meeting will have public comment openings available, both during General Public Hearing and for each agenda item around the election law [should it advance from Work Session].)

– Regular Council Meeting on Monday, May 12 from 6 - 8 p.m. via Zoom. (Note: Should the election laws advance to first hearing on April 28, this meeting would constitute the ‘second hearing’ and therefore be eligible for vote by Council. There will also be public comment openings available, and the key would be to request a speaking slot with the Clerk by 2 p.m. on the day of the meeting.)

Your questions, ideas, and thoughts helps me shape legislation and decisions – Thank you! 😀