MD Officials breakdown statewide questions that will be on ballot Nov. 6

SALISBURY, Md. – The countdown has begun for Maryland’s 2018 general election and in less than a month residents will be hitting the polls to vote on some very important questions locally and statewide. On Monday we focused the statewide questions that will be on the ballot,and what they mean for the future of Maryland.

“If this referendum does in fact pass, it’s a fulfilling of a promise,” said Maryland Delegate for District 38B Carl Anderton.

On November 6th, residents in Maryland will get to vote on two statewide questions that could end up having a huge impact on the state. The first question on the ballot would solidify the revenue that casino’s in Maryland make actually go to public schools.

“When the referendum for establishing casino regulations in Maryland was passed, that money was supposed to be earmarked immediately for education funding it wasn’t,” said Anderton.

If passed, the amendment would progressively dedicate gambling profits to public schools in the state through 2023. And officials say public schools like the ones here on the eastern shore would reap the benefits.

“Worcester would be slated to receive $2 million additional money annually once it’s phased in, Wicomico, $12 million, and somerset $2 million,” said Maryland State Education Association President Cheryl Bost.

Officials add the extra money is critical in funding the resources they say some schools so desperately need.

“Technology, text books, all of the resources that teachers need can be provided,” said Bost.

Also on the ballot a question that would allow a qualified resident to register and vote at a polling place on Election Day. Some say this amendment would help lower barriers residents may face when casting a ballot.

“If somebody is relocating to this area and they just missed that cutoff, now they have another opportunity to register and vote and point their community in the direction they want it to go,” said Anderton.

But officials add whether you support the questions or not the decision is ultimately up to you, the voter to decide what you feel is best for you and the future of Maryland.

The deadline to register to vote is 9 PM on October 16th and early voting begins October 25th.