Maryland § 8-401
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 8-401, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-401.
(a) A special primary election or a special general election may be held at a time other than the date of a regular primary election or a regular general election:
(1) to fill a vacancy in the office of Representative in Congress; or
(2) to fill a vacancy in the county council or in the office of chief executive officer or county executive if the charter of that county provides for special elections.
(b) (1) Special elections to fill a vacancy in the office of Representative in Congress shall be held at the time specified in Subtitle 7 of this title.
(2) (i) Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, special elections to fill vacancies in a county council or in the office of chief executive officer or county executive shall be held as provided in the county charter.
(ii) The date set for the special election to fill a vacancy under this paragraph:
1. shall be at least 90 days after the adoption of the resolution of the county council establishing the date of the special election;
2. may not be within 120 days of a regularly scheduled election; and
3. shall allow at least 45 days between the date a local board makes an absentee ballot available to an absent uniformed services voter or overseas voter, as defined under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, and the date of the special election.
(c) An election to fill a vacancy in the office of United States Senator shall be held concurrently with a regular election as provided in Subtitle 6 of this title.
(d) The State Board shall adopt regulations to establish requirements concerning:
(1) notice to absent uniformed services voters and overseas voters concerning a special election; and
(2) the process for absent uniformed services voters and overseas voters to:
(i) request an absentee ballot for a special election; and
(ii) return an absentee ballot by mail in a timely manner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 8-401
What does Maryland Code § 8-401 cover?
Section 8-401 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 8-401?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 8-401" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 8-401 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.