VISION AND MISSION. CAIR s vision is to be a leading advocate for justice and mutual understanding.

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2 VISION AND MISSION CAIR s vision is to be a leading advocate for justice and mutual understanding. CAIR s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice and empower American Muslims MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction... 5 Important Dates... 6 Quick Tips... 6 Ballot Propositions... 7 Meet the Candidates... 8 Voter Guide Survey Questions Candidate Survey Responses MD Congressional Scorecard Understanding Your Voting Rights Frequently Asked Questions Supplemental Candidate Responses 24 to Survey Questions Early Voting Centers Index & Resources MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 3

4 A MESSAGE FROM CAIR S DIRECTOR OF MARYLAND OUTREACH Dear Voter: The 2018 mid-term election presents Maryland s Muslim communities and our allies with an important opportunity to increase our political capacity and presence. Especially with large concentrations of Muslim voters in several counties, American Muslim constituents have the potential to be fairly influential in determining the outcome of our local and state elections. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, has compiled our 2018 Maryland Voter Guide in partnership with the United Maryland Muslim Council (UMMC) as a public education resource to simplify the voting process and help you understand where candidates running for public office stand on issues that matter to you. It s important to note that this tool is only intended to provide a general overview. As a non-partisan, non-profit 501c3 organization, CAIR makes no claims as to the favorability of one candidate over another. Therefore, readers of this guide should do their due diligence in extensively researching candidates policies more comprehensively. The goal of this publication is to: Promote voter turn-out at Maryland polls Simplify access to helpful resources, links and tools to facilitate the voting process, and Inform Muslim community members and allies about candidates positions on key issues that may impact or interest you Inside this guide, you will find: Candidate survey responses to ten issues Maryland Congressional scorecard References and answers to Frequently Asked Questions We encourage you to participate in elections; organize voter registration drives and candidate forums; volunteer for campaigns; and coordinate get out the vote initiatives. We are committed to making our communities voices heard and hope you will exercise your civic duty by participating in the political process this year. With so much at stake, your voice matters now more than ever before. Regards, Zainab Chaudry, Pharm.D. Director, Maryland Outreach Council on American-Islamic Relations 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 4

5 INTRODUCTION The 2018 Maryland Voter Guide is a public education resource developed with the goal of providing Maryland Muslim voters and allies with information on candidates positions on important civil rights and societal issues that impact your communities. It also contains guidance about the voting process and information about your rights and responsibilities as a voter. This Fall, Marylanders like you will vote into office our state s next governor, comptroller, attorney general, U.S. Senator, all eight seats in the House of Representatives and all 188 seats in the General Assembly. Local elections for county executives, council members or commissioners, state s attorneys and other offices will also be held in counties across the state. For the sake of convenience and relevance, only candidates competing in local races in counties that are home to a substantial population of Muslim voters were surveyed for the purpose of this guide. CAIR is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that does not favor one party over another. The candidate survey featured questions pertaining to ten key issues, most of which have been hot-button topics amongst Maryland s minority communities since the 2016 presidential election. These are: President Donald Trump s Muslim travel ban Executive Order, racial and religious profiling by law enforcement agencies, Eid equality in Maryland public schools, immigration, MD TRUST Act, Countering Violent Extremism (CVE), the Boycott, Divestment, & Sanctions (BDS) movement, religious freedom as it pertains to houses of worship, economy & jobs, and faith-based bullying in Maryland public schools. This publication is an educational tool intended to empower our state s Muslim voters and allies in this critical election year. It communicates to elected officials that their constituents are paying attention to their stances on key legislation, issues and polices, and this will in turn impact the way we choose to vote. Every effort was made to contact candidates via and phone and obtain feedback regardless of party affiliation. Candidates were provided between four to five weeks to submit their responses. As a non-profit organization, CAIR cannot campaign for or against specific candidates for public office; however, we are able to endorse ballot measures. As such, this guide includes CAIR s recommendations on one of the state s two ballot propositions, and the Maryland Congressional Scorecard MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 5

6 IMPORTANT DATES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 9 PM - Voter Registration Deadline NOTE: The Maryland General Assembly has passed the Secure and Accessible Registration Act. Beginning in October 2018, the State of Maryland will automatically begin registering citizens to vote when they interact with state agencies such as the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25 to THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 10 AM to 8 PM - Early Voting General Election FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 5 PM Last day to request Absentee Ballot Absentee Ballot must be postmarked by Tuesday, November 6. Contact the Maryland Board of Elections to register to vote and to apply for Absentee Ballots. Phone: (410) info.sbe@maryland.gov TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 7 AM to 8 PM General Election Day QUICK TIPS FOR VOTERS Check your voter registration status before October 16: VoterSearch Locate and print your sample ballot so you know what it looks like in advance. To find your sample ballot, visit: Locate your polling place, note the address and hours of operation. To find your polling place, visit: Consider voting early if possible. In Maryland, if you miss the voter registration deadline of October 16, you can register to vote at your designated polling place during early voting October 25 November 1. If you plan to vote in person at the polls, go earlier in the day to avoid long lines. If you are a first-time voter, plan to take an acceptable form of ID. This can be your Maryland driver s license, MVA ID card, student, employee, or military ID card, U.S. passport, or any other state or federal government-issued ID card. You may also take a current utility bill, bank statement, or government-issued check that shows your name and address. If you are not a first-time voter, you do not need identification in Maryland. Read all instructions carefully. Take your time completing your ballot and ask for help if you need it. Review the FAQ s (Frequently Asked Questions) Section MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 6

7 BALLOT PROPOSITIONS As of September 14, 2018, two statewide ballot measures were certified for the State of Maryland s 2018 ballot. As a non-profit organization, CAIR cannot campaign for or against specific candidates for office, but is able to endorse ballot measures. This guide includes CAIR s recommendations on these questions as applicable. MARYLAND QUESTION 1, the Gambling Revenue Dedicated to Education Lockbox Amendment, is on the 2018 ballot in Maryland as a legislatively referred constitutional amendment. A yes vote supports amending the state constitution to close the Education Trust Fund loophole and dedicate certain casino revenue towards public education as supplementary funding. A no vote opposes this amendment to close the Education Trust Fund loophole and dedicate certain casino revenue towards public education as supplementary funding. CAIR DECLINES TO MAKE A RECOMMENDATION. MARYLAND QUESTION 2, the Election-Day Voter Registration Amendment, is on the 2018 ballot in Maryland as a legislatively referred constitutional amendment. Maryland currently allows voters to register or update their existing registration during the early voting period, but not on Election Day. As of June 2018, 16 states and the District of Columbia currently or will soon permit Election Day registration, which allows voters to register or update their existing registration on Election Day. A yes vote will allow eligible individuals to register to vote at their precinct polling place at the same time and place as they cast their ballot on Election Day. A no vote opposes amending the state constitution to allow same-day voter registration, thereby leaving in place same-day voter registration during the early voting period but not on election day. CAIR RECOMMENDS VOTING YES MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 7

8 MEET THE CANDIDATES ALLAN KITTLEMAN AL REDMER AMIE HOBER ANDY HARRIS ANGELA D. ALSOBROOKS ANTHONY BROWN ARVIN VOHRA BARRY GLASSMAN BEN CARDIN BEN JEALOUS BRIAN FROSH CRAIG WOLF DAVE BISHOP DAVID GRIGGS DAVID TRONE DR. CALVIN BALL DUTCH RUPPERSBERGER ELIJAH CUMMINGS GEORGE McDERMOTT GEORGE GLUCK 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 8

9 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 9 JENICA MARTIN LARRY HOGAN PAT ELDER STEVE SCHUH IAN SCHLAKMAN JESSE COLVIN LIZ MATORY RICHMOND DAVIS TED ATHEY JACOB PULCHER JOHN SARBANES MARC ELRICH ROBIN FICKER TONY CAMPBELL JAMIE RASKIN JOHNNY OLSZEWSKI MARYANN FORGAN SHAWN QUINN WILLIAM DEVINE III JASEN WUNDER JOHN WALSH NANCY FLOREEN STEUART PITTMAN STENY HOYER GUILLAUME MIMOUN

10 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - SURVEY QUESTIONS Candidates who completed CAIR s 2018 Maryland Election Candidate Survey were requested to respond to the following ten questions: Question 1: Position on Restrictions to Prevent Law Enforcement Profiling Law enforcement in Maryland is prohibited from using race, religion or other protected characteristics when conducting routine law enforcement activities. However, reports of profiling and unconstitutional policing by law enforcement continue to abound. Do you support or oppose enhancing restrictions on local, state or federal law enforcement to prevent them from relying on actual or perceived race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, or sex in making routine or spontaneous law enforcement decisions? Question 2: Position on Muslim Travel Ban Executive Order Do you support or oppose President Donald Trump s anti-muslim travel ban executive orders that have directly impacted thousands of Marylanders, and which have also limited travel to and from several Muslim-majority nations? Question 3: Position on Eid Equality in MD Public Schools Do you support or oppose public school systems with significantly substantial Muslim populations in your constituency closing for the Muslim holidays of Eid al-fitr and Eid al-adha, when many students or faculty would otherwise be absent? Question 4: Position on 287(g) - State/Local LE Enforcing Federal Immigration Policies Many state or local law enforcement departments have entered into a partnership with ICE, under a joint Memorandum of Agreement, commonly referred to as 287(g) agreements, to receive delegated authority for federal immigration enforcement within their jurisdictions. These agreements have led to state and local law enforcement officials enforcing the Trump administration s controversial zero tolerance immigration policies among immigrant families and communities. Do you support or oppose state or local law enforcement entering into 287(g) agreements to carry out federal immigration law enforcement functions? Question 5: Position on TRUST Act in local or state government Adopted by cities and states nationwide, the Trust Act prohibits city or state employees including law enforcement officers from asking a law-abiding person s immigration status. It would also prohibit the collection of residents information for unconstitutional federal registries. If elected, would you use your office to support or oppose adoption of the Trust Act in local or state government? Question 6: Position on Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Programs Targeting Muslim Communities In 2011, the U.S. Department of Justice announced a new anti-terrorism initiative, Countering Violent Extremism (CVE), with the seeming objective to deter U.S. residents from joining violent extremist groups 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 10

11 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - SURVEY QUESTIONS by bringing community and religious leaders together with law enforcement, health professionals, teachers and social service employees. However, Muslim and allied communities nationwide have rejected the CVE initiative for its primary focus on and singling out of Muslim communities above all other communities for surveillance and criminalization. The Trump administration has further made it clear that it plans to use CVE to solely target American Muslim communities. If elected, would you use your office to support or oppose CVE initiatives and programs on any level of the government? Question 7: Position on Right to Engage in BDS Movement Boycotts supporting civil and human rights such as the Montgomery Bus boycott against segregation or the boycott of companies enabling South African Apartheid have been revered throughout American history as an integral part of our political process and means by which to participate in democracy. However, many states have adopted statutes to curb activity involving Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign activity in support of Palestinian human rights. Do you support or oppose the First Amendment right of Americans and U.S. businesses to engage in the BDS movement? Question 8: Position on Religious Freedom for Muslim Houses of Worship Do you support or oppose actions taken by the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice to protect the right of Muslim communities to establish or expand places of worship on the same terms as other religious communities? Question 9: Position on Reducing Taxes for Small Businesses Do you support or oppose reducing taxes and improving sound fiscal management policies on federal, state and local levels of the government for small businesses that can create more jobs with living wages? Question 10: Position on Strengthening Anti-Bullying Initiatives in MD Public Schools Every school district, administrator and educator has a responsibility to provide a safe learning environment for children. However, faith-based and racial bullying are serious phenomena that affect too many students in Maryland public schools. A recent study produced by CAIR s California chapter reveals that over half of Muslim children reported being bullied in In Maryland, some parents have switched to homeschooling or other alternatives to protect their children. Do you support or oppose implementing more comprehensive anti-bias curriculums and introducing stricter anti-bullying measures to protect students from bullying in our schools? 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 11

12 CANDIDATE SURVEY RESPONSES 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 12

13 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - CANDIDATE SURVEY RESPONSES 2018 MARYLAND CONGRESSIONAL SCORECARD INTRODUCTION CAIR has compiled the 2018 Maryland Congressional Scorecard to help educate Muslim community members and allies as they plan to vote in the 2018 midterm November elections. This scorecard reflects the voting performance of representatives from the U.S. Congress. The votes and bill cosponsors of each legislator have been rated positive (+) or negative (-) depending on how closely their votes on relevant legislation corresponded with civil rights and social justice priorities identified by CAIR. The criteria selected for each topic is rooted in legislation introduced and voted upon in The amount of legislation introduced in Congress is expansive, and the bills and votes included here reflect only a microcosm of that. Elected officials performance should not be gauged by them alone. This scorecard is intended to provide a general profile that we hope will assist voters in better understanding the attitudes of elected officials towards key issues that may interest or impact you. A member of Congress co-sponsorship or lack of co-sponsorship does not necessarily indicate their full position on a given bill. CAIR makes no claims as to the favorability of one candidate being elected over another. Therefore, we encourage readers of this guide to further research the actions of their local representatives before supporting any candidate. The 2018 election cycle presents the American Muslim community and allies with an important opportunity to increase their political capacity and presence, and be influential in determining the results of local, state and federal elections. As a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, CAIR cannot engage in political activities that support one candidate or party over another, but we are committed to encouraging voter turnout and helping make your voice heard MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 13

14 MARYLAND CONGRESSIONAL SCORECARD U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MARYLAND CONGRESSIONAL SCORECARD U.S. SENATE 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 14

15 LEGISLATION OF INTEREST TO CAIR LEGISLATION CALLING FOR STIGMATIZING STRATEGIC ASSESSMENTS OF ISLAMIC DOCTRINE H. AMDT. 185 TO H.R ALSO KNOWN AS FRANKS OF ARIZONA AMENDMENT NO STRATEGIC ASSESSMENTS OF THE USE OF VIOLENT OR UNORTHODOX ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS DOCTRINE TO SUPPORT EXTREMIST OR TERRORIST MESSAGING AND JUSTIFICATION ABOUT: Representative Trent Franks (R-AZ) Amendment No. 13 to H.R. 2810, the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act, would have required the Department of Defense to conduct two strategic assessments, one to be conducted by governmental persons and the other conducted by non-governmental persons, on the use of Use of Violent or Unorthodox Islam to Support Extremist or Terrorist Messaging. The majority of Congress joined with Muslim and civil liberties groups in opposing the amendment in a narrow vote of 208 Yes to 217 No, with 27 Republicans and 190 Democrats joining together to reject the motion because it unfairly targeted one faith, Islam. The amendment was counter to the fundamental American principle that the government should not have the authority to define what constitutes unorthodox religious practices, which could result in American Muslims being further targeted by bias. The amendment also would have mandated identification of key Islamic leaders that practice any form of Islam. STATUS: Failed to pass the house on July 14, CAIR POSITION: IN OPPOSITION TO THE MEASURE LEGISLATION OPPOSING THE FIRST MUSLIM BAN EXECUTIVE ORDER H.R STATUE OF LIBERTY VALUES (SOLVE) ACT OF 2017 S A BILL TO BLOCK THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CERTAIN PRESIDENTIAL AC- TIONS THAT RESTRICT INDIVIDUALS FROM CERTAIN COUNTRIES FROM ENTERING THE UNITED STATES. ABOUT: Introduced by Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), H.R. 724 would have rescinded and defunded President Donald Trump s first Muslim Ban Executive Order 13769, Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States, which banned refugees and travelers from seven Muslim majority nations (Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen). Introduced by Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), S is similar to H.R. 724, as it would have rescinded and defunded President Donald Trump s first Muslim Ban Executive Order. CAIR notes that several other pieces of congressional legislation in opposition to the first, second and third Muslim Ban executive orders were introduced and co-sponsored by many other members of congress. CAIR chose to highlight the SOLVE Act and S because it included the greatest number of co-sponsors MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 15

16 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - LEGISLATION OF INTEREST TO CAIR STATUS: H.R. 724 was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, in addition to the Committees on Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, and Intelligence (Permanent Select). S was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. CAIR POSITION: IN SUPPORT OF THE MEASURES. GUN SAFETY REFORM H.R & S DISARM HATE ACT ABOUT: Identical bills, H.R and S would ban gun sales to people who have been convicted of a hate crime or a misdemeanor committed out of hatred of a person s race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability from attaining a firearm. The Disarm Hate Act addresses the loophole by amending the federal criminal code to include those convicted of a misdemeanor hate crime or an enhanced sentence crime because it was partially motivated by hate. For an act to fall under this classification, it needs to involve the use, attempted use, or the threat of using physical force or a weapon to inflict physical harm on a person based one of the protected classification identities. STATUS: H.R was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary s Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations. S was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. CAIR POSITION: IN SUPPORT OF THE MEASURES. PROHIBITING LAW ENFORCEMENT RACIAL AND RELIGIOUS PROFILING H.R End Racial Profiling Act of 2017 S. 411 End Racial and Religious Profiling Act of 2017 (or ERRPA) ABOUT: H.R and S. 411 prohibits racial and religious profiling by a federal, state, local, or tribal law enforcement agency or agent. The acts empower the Department of Justice (DOJ), or an individual injured by racial profiling, to bring a civil action to enforce the prohibition. They require federal law enforcement agencies to maintain policies and procedures to eliminate racial profiling, including training on racial profiling issues, the collection of data, and procedures for handling complaints. Among its many statutory requirements, state or local governments that receive certain federal funds must maintain policies and procedures to eliminate racial profiling, including training on racial profiling issues, the collection of data, and participation in an administrative complaint procedure or independent audit program. DOJ must withhold or reduce grant funds from a state or unit of local government that fails to comply. STATUS: H.R was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary s Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations and Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice. S. 411 was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary CAIR POSITION: IN SUPPORT OF THE MEASURES MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 16

17 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - LEGISLATION OF INTEREST TO CAIR LEGISLATION PROHIBITING BOYCOTTS AND FREE SPEECH H.R & S ISRAEL ANTI-BOYCOTT ACT ABOUT: Introduced by Representatives Juan Vargas (D-CA), Lee Zeldin (R-NY), and Brad Sherman (D-CA) and Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Rob Portman (R-OH), the Israel Anti-Boycott Act is unconstitutional and violates the free speech rights of all Americans. The act would criminalize American business owners and individuals supporting any international boycott directed by the United Nations, the European Union or any other international governmental organization that is aimed at Israel s illegal occupation of Palestinian territories with criminal and financial penalties. CAIR believes that the legislation s purpose is to intimidate Americans from supporting the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign that defends the human rights of Palestinians. BDS is the same peaceful method of political activism that has been used to challenge injustice in America and worldwide, including against one of the greatest forms of injustice in our time Apartheid. Americans have engaged in political boycotts since the nation s founding. The colonial American boycott of British tea imports and the Montgomery Bus Boycott during the civil rights era are examples of historic American boycotts. STATUS: On June 28, 2018, H.R was unanimously approved by the House Foreign Affairs Committee. S. 720 was referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. CAIR POSITION: IN OPPOSITION TO THE MEASURE. CREATING A PATHWAY TO CITIZENSHIP FOR DREAMERS H.R & S DREAM ACT OF 2017 ABOUT: The Dream Act of 2017 provides a pathway for the 800,000 undocumented young people, commonly referred to as Dreamers, brought to the United States as children to become permanent residents, and eventually apply for citizenship. Specifically, the bill directs the DHS to cancel removal and grant lawful permanent resident status on a conditional basis to any Dreamer who: (1) has been continuously physically present in the U.S. for four years preceding this bill s enactment; (2) was younger than 18 years of age on the initial date of U.S. entry; (3) is not inadmissible on criminal, security, terrorism, or other grounds; (4) has not participated in persecution; (5) has not been convicted of specified federal or state offenses; and (6) has fulfilled specified educational requirements. DHS would also cancel the removal of and adjust to the status of any Dreamer admitted for permanent residence on a conditional basis, as well as Dreamers who were granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status unless they engaged in conduct that would make them ineligible for DACA. STATUS: H.R was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary s Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and in addition to the Committee on Education and the Workforce. S was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. CAIR POSITION: IN SUPPORT OF THE MEASURE MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 17

18 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - LEGISLATION OF INTEREST TO CAIR SANCTIONING BURMA FOR GENOCIDE OF ROHINGYA MUSLIMS H. AMDT. 651 TO H.R ALSO KNOWN AS ENGEL OF NEW YORK AMENDMENT NO MATTERS RELATING TO BURMA ABOUT: Representative Eliot L. Engel s (D-NY) Amendment No. 43 authorizes financial and visa sanctions against perpetrators of ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya by the Burmese military and security forces; limits U.S. military and security assistance with Burma until reforms take place; incentivizes reform of the Burmese gemstone sector; and requires a determination of what crimes the Burmese military committed, including genocide. The amendment is similar in nature to Rep. Engel s H.R Burma Act of S BURMA HUMAN RIGHTS AND FREEDOM ACT OF 2018 ABOUT: Originally introduced by the late Senator John McCain (R-AZ), S contains many similar provisions to Rep. Engel s measures on Burma. Additionally, the measure would appropriate $103,695,069 for fiscal year 2018 for humanitarian assistance for Burma, Bangladesh, and the region; appropriate $27,400,000 for fiscal year 2018 for reconciliation programs in Burma; and, reinstate U.S. import restrictions on jadeite from Burma. STATUS: H. AMDT. 651 to H.R was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 382 to 30 and amended to the House version of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (H.R. 5515). However, the amendment, was opposed by Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnel and was stripped from the final version of the NDAA. While S was amended and approved by Senator Bib Corker (R-KY), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, it cannot proceed any further because of Senate Leader McConnel s opposition. Senator McConnel opposes the measures, because in his words: In my view publicly condemning Aung San Suu Kyi, the best hope for democratic reform in Burma, is simply not constructive and Unfounded criticism of Suu Kyi exaggerates her ability to command the military, which the Burmese constitution does not actually allow her to do. CAIR POSITION: IN SUPPORT OF THE MEASURES MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 18

19 UNDERSTANDING YOUR VOTING RIGHTS As Americans, you have the freedom to choose your elected leaders and engage with them on issues that matter to you. This enables you to build political power on a grassroots level that can create lasting change in your communities. Exercising your right to vote is one way to expand that power. Voting gives you leverage to hold your elected leaders accountable. It helps you select representatives who pay attention to your concerns and ideas, reflect your values and are willing to help build the future that you envision for our country. Some states have voting laws that protect and support building voter power, while others create obstacles like poll taxes and restrictive identification requirements to try to silence the opposition. Maryland is fortunate to be considered a leader in voting rights, meaning that the majority of our state s policies protect your right to vote. Earlier this year, the Maryland state legislature enacted the Secure and Accessible Registration Act. Beginning in October 2018, the State of Maryland will automatically begin registering citizens to vote when they interact with state agencies such as the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). OUR STATE ALSO OFFERS: Pre-registration for citizens under 18 Early voting Ability to register to vote during early voting Vote-by-mail and absentee voting Ability to vote in primary election if 18 by general election Voting rights restoration No restriction ID requirements to vote No restrictive documentation requirements to register to vote 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 19

20 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ s) REGISTERING TO VOTE CAN I VOTE IN MARYLAND? You can vote in the General Election if you are registered by October 16, HOW DO I CHECK TO SEE IF I AM ALREADY REGISTERED TO VOTE? You can check your registration status by locating and contacting your local board of elections office or visiting the State Board of Elections website at AM I ELIGIBLE TO REGISTER TO VOTE? To register to vote, you must be: A U.S. citizen; A legal Maryland resident; and At least 16 years old* (You may register to vote, but cannot actually cast your ballot unless you will turn 18 years old by the general election.) You cannot have been: Convicted of buying or selling votes; Under guardianship for mental disability and found by a court to be unable to communicate a desire to vote; or Convicted of a felony and currently serving a court-ordered sentence of imprisonment. CAN I REGISTER TO VOTE IF I AM IN THE MILITARY OR LIVE OVERSEAS? If you are an overseas citizen, military personnel, or dependent of military personnel who lives overseas or serves in the military and is eligible to vote, you may register in Maryland if your current or last U.S. residence was in Maryland. CAN I REGISTER TO VOTE IF I HAVE BEEN CONVICTED OF A CRIME? You are eligible to vote if you have served out your prison term and are not currently incarcerated for a felony conviction. This includes federal, state and out-of-state convictions. CAN I VOTE IF I AM 17 YEARS OLD? A 17-year-old registered voter may vote in the Primary election if they will be 18 years old on or before November 6. You can vote in the General Election if you are 18 on November 6, WHAT IF I AM A STUDENT ENROLLED IN COLLEGE? You may register to vote at your school address if you choose to do so. Visit: voter_registration/students.html WHAT IF I AM HOMELESS? You do not need a home address to register to vote if you can show that you live and receive mail in the state MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 20

21 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ s) WHAT IS THE EASIEST, FASTEST WAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE? You can use Maryland s Online Voter Registration System (OLVR). Visit: maryland.gov/onlinevoterregistration You can also register to vote: 1. In person, by filling out a voter registration form at your local elections office; 2. By mail*, by filling out a voter registration form and mailing it to the State Board of Elections or your local elections office; or 3. When you apply for services at the Department of Motor Vehicles or other state agencies that provide public assistance or services to people with disabilities. Voter registration forms are available at local elections office, most libraries, colleges and high schools, by calling (800) , or by visiting WHAT IF I MOVED OR CHANGED MY NAME? You should notify your local board of elections, either in person or by mail, before the registration deadline. HOW DO I LOCATE MY LOCAL BOARD OF ELECTIONS? Visit: EARLY VOTING & ABSENTEE BALLOTS WHEN IS EARLY VOTING? October 21 November 1. All early voting centers are open from 10am to 8pm. WHERE CAN I FIND MY EARLY VOTING CENTER? Visit: Voting during early voting is the same as voting on election day. When you get to the early voting center, you will check in to vote and cast your ballot. You will receive instructions, and may ask an election judge to explain how to vote, but you must cast your vote alone, unless you are unable to do so because you have a disability or are unable to read or write the English language. I MOVED RECENTLY. HOW CAN I FIND MY UPDATED POLLING PLACE? Visit: Who can use an absentee ballot? Any registered voter can cast an absentee ballot. HOW DO I OBTAIN MY ABSENTEE BALLOT? You must request one. Request forms are available by calling (800) or online at: For the 2018 General Election, your request must be received (not just mailed) by: Tuesday, October 30, 2018, if you want to receive your ballot by mail or fax OR Friday, November 2, 2018, if you want to download your ballot from the State s website. WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING ABSENTEE BALLOTS? If you hand-deliver your ballot, you must deliver it to your local board of elections by 8pm on Election Day. If you mail your ballot, the envelope must be postmarked on or before election day (November 6) and 2018 MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 21

22 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ s) received by your local board of elections by November 16. HOW DO I MAKE SURE MY ABSENTEE BALLOT WAS COUNTED? If you voted an absentee or provisional ballot, find out whether your ballot was counted and if not, the reason why it was not counted. This information is typically available about 10 days after an election. ELECTION DAY WHEN IS ELECTION DAY? TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. You have the right to vote if you re in line or inside your polling place when the polls close. CAN I GET TIME OFF WORK TO VOTE? Maryland law requires that if your work schedule prevents you from voting in-person while the polls are open, then you have the right to take up to two hours of paid leave in order to cast your ballot. It s recommended to give your employer at least two working days notice of your need to take time off. You must provide your employer proof on a Certificate of Participation document issued by the State Board of Elections that you voted or attempted to vote. WHERE DO I VOTE? On Election Day, you must vote at the polling place to which you are assigned. Your assigned polling place is listed on the voter registration card that you should receive in the mail when you register. If you don t have your card, you can visit: WHAT IF I CANNOT GET TO MY ASSIGNED POLLING PLACE ON ELECTION DAY? Visit and complete the Request for Polling Place Change or Absentee Ballot. The board of elections will try to change your polling place to one that is accessible. If your polling place cannot be changed, you will receive an absentee ballot. You may also bring one or more people to assist you as long as they are not an employer, an agent of your employer, an officer or agent of your labor union, or a candidate on the ballot. CAN I TAKE ELECTION MATERIALS WITH ME INTO MY POLLING PLACE? Yes. You may take written or printed election materials for your personal use to help you cast your ballot. Examples include a completed sample ballot or this voter guide. But you are not allowed to show or distribute these materials to anyone else within 100 feet of your polling place. AM I ALLOWED TO WEAR CAMPAIGN CLOTHING, STICKER OR BUTTONS TO MY POLLING PLACE? Yes. You may wear campaign clothing, stickers and buttons with political messages in your polling place, but you must leave immediately after casting your ballot. CAN I GET A BALLOT IN MY NATIVE LANGUAGE? Federal law requires Montgomery County to provide election materials in Spanish. If you vote in this county, poll workers are required to offer assistance in Spanish and you are entitled to a translation of election materials. Non-English materials may be provided in other jurisdictions on a voluntary basis. Remember that you are also allowed to bring with you someone to translate for you as long as they are not an employer, an agent of your employer, an officer or agent of your labor union, or a candidate on the ballot MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 22

23 2018 MD VOTER GUIDE - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ s) WHAT IF I NEED HELP IN THE VOTING BOOTH? Ask an election judge or poll worker for help. They are required to assist you at any time even after you ve entered the voting booth. WHAT IF I AM A FIRST-TIME VOTER WHO NEEDS MY ID AND FORGOT TO BRING IT WITH ME? You may cast a provisional ballot. These must be counted regardless of whether they will change the outcome of the election. WHAT DO I DO IF MY NAME IS NOT ON THE VOTER LIST AT THE CHECK-IN STATION? Confirm with an election judge that you are at the right polling place, then request to complete a provisional ballot. WHAT IF SOMEONE OBSTRUCTS OR CHALLENGES MY RIGHT TO VOTE? If an election judge challenges your right to vote, provide them with your voter registration card or any form of identification required of first-time voters. If you have ID, you should be able to cast a regular ballot. Otherwise, you may have to cast a provisional ballot. If the challenger is someone else, notify an election judge right away, as well as your local board of elections. If you believe you are being discriminated against or being blocked from voting, report it to the Maryland State Board of Elections and to CAIR at civilrights@cair.com WHAT IF I AM INTIMIDATED OR HARASSED AT THE POLLING PLACE? If you experience taunts, heckling, or any form of harassment, or want to file a complaint, notify an election judge right away. If an election official is the source of the problem, notify a poll watcher if one is present, contact your local board of elections and CAIR at civilrights@cair.com I HAVE A DISABILITY. WILL I BE ABLE TO VOTE? Yes. All of the early voting centers and most of the polling places in Maryland are accessible to voters with disabilities. Visit MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 23

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51 INDEX & RESOURCES Maryland State Board of Elections: (800) (410) Website: Council on American-Islamic Relations CAIR Office in Maryland (443) Website: United Maryland Muslim Council: Online Voter Registration: Polling Place Search: Voter Information Lookup: Local Boards of Election: Baltimore Sun Maryland Voter Guide 2018: Voter Registration Information: Maryland Election Manual: Rock The Vote Website: The Council on American-Islamic Relations is a non-profit 501c3 organization. This guide was prepared as an educational resource to encourage voter participation, educate voters on candidate positions, and provide useful information to simplify the voting process. CAIR is a non-partisan organization and does not favor candidates regardless of party affiliation. This publication is not intended to be a comprehensive guide to candidates positions on all issues. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is America s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. The United Maryland Muslim Council (UMMC) is a non-political, non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting the interest and involvement of American Muslims in the State of Maryland MARYLAND VOTER GUIDE 51

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