You must be registered in order to vote in the upcoming primary and general elections, which include races for U.S. House and Senate. Basic requirements include being an American citizen, a Maryland resident, and at least 16 years of age (must be at least 18 years old by the general election to vote). The deadline to register to vote in Maryland’s primary election is Tuesday, March 13. You must be registered with a party to vote in that party’s primary. Visit www.elections.state.md.us or call the Maryland State Board of Elections at 1-800-222-8683 to learn more.
Education and Family Life
The Education and Family Life Department focuses on issues involving the education of elementary and secondary school students, and on marriage and family life. In addition to developing public policy recommendations on these issues, the Department disseminates pertinent background materials, organizes educational and training events, and facilitates Church involvement in government agencies and programs that affect education and family life.
In the area of education, the Department promotes legislation that supports parents' rights as primary educators of their children, and that increases access for all families to the education best suited to their children's needs. The Department considers educational issues affecting the students, teachers, and families of public, private, and religious schools, with a particular focus on issues that affect the Catholic school community. For the last several years, the Department has worked hard to promote the BOAST Maryland Tax Credit.
In the area of family life, the Department promotes legislation that supports traditional marriage and that enhances the ability of all families to raise their children in a stable, nurturing, and safe environment. The Department coordinates with the Social Concerns Department on issues affecting adoptive families and working parents, school health issues, and other related concerns.