ANNAPOLIS – In the shadow of the U.S. Naval Academy, Bob Ehrlich today joined with veterans to pledge his full support for the voting rights of American military personnel risking their lives serving our country overseas. Ehrlich pledged that as Governor he will work to make Maryland fully comply with the Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act – or MOVE Act – which requires that states send absentee ballots to servicemen and women abroad at least 45 days before an election. Currently, the State of Maryland is seeking a waiver from the law.
“Maryland’s military men and women deserve to know their state government is taking all measures necessary to protect their right to vote,” said Ehrlich. “As Governor, I will work to change State policy to comply with the MOVE Act and ensure our soldiers, sailors, and airmen receive their ballots with sufficient time to return them. This may require heavy bipartisan lifting with the Maryland General Assembly, but we owe it to our military personnel to get the job done. They don’t shirk from their duties, and neither will Maryland if I am elected.”
The State of Maryland applied for a waiver from the MOVE Act’s requirements July 28th, 2010. President Obama signed the legislation into law in October 2009.
“Maryland’s military men and women deserve to know their state government is taking all measures necessary to protect their right to vote,” said Ehrlich. “As Governor, I will work to change State policy to comply with the MOVE Act and ensure our soldiers, sailors, and airmen receive their ballots with sufficient time to return them. This may require heavy bipartisan lifting with the Maryland General Assembly, but we owe it to our military personnel to get the job done. They don’t shirk from their duties, and neither will Maryland if I am elected.”
The State of Maryland applied for a waiver from the MOVE Act’s requirements July 28th, 2010. President Obama signed the legislation into law in October 2009.
Joe, I would hope that in your interview with O'Malley you ask WHY Maryland requested a waiver of MOVE ACT that wouild ensure the military receives ballots on time.
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