As Maryland prepares for the 2026 Legislative Session, lawmakers, community leaders, and advocates across the state are gearing up for months of debate and decision-making that will shape Maryland’s future.

Each year, thousands of bills are introduced that influence how our state allocates resources, funds services, and sets priorities. The bills that will (and won’t) be passed this year will have major impacts on individual people, families, and businesses statewide.

As the session approaches, here’s what people with disabilities, their advocates, and allies need to know.

2026 Legislative Session: What to Expect

Maryland’s 448^th Legislative Session convenes on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, and will run for 90 days, adjourning at midnight on Monday, April 13, 2026.

During this time, state lawmakers will gather in Annapolis to review proposed laws and budget decisions tied to some of the state’s most pressing challenges. Key issues this year are expected to include Maryland’s budget deficit, energy spending, rising costs of healthcare and education, as well as funding for the Maryland Department of Health.

These conversations will directly impact Marylanders with disabilities. As we prepare for the 2026 Legislative Session, our advocacy is guided by the real experiences, priorities, and voices of the people we support.

“Nothing About Us Without Us”

Fello’s self-advocacy group, Living Boldly, is made up of people we support who meet regularly to strengthen their own quality of life and advocate for change statewide.

As the 2026 session approaches, Living Boldly is preparing for a range of advocacy efforts—from learning about lawmakers and proposed bills to deciding how they want their voices heard this year.

“Our recent meetings have focused on understanding who represents us, what issues are coming forward, and what meaningful advocacy looks like for our group,” said Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations at Fello.

Fello’s philosophy of advocacy is grounded in the belief that people with disabilities know what they need to thrive. Everything we advocate is aligned with what people tell us matters most to them: choice, access, stability, and opportunity.

Bills We’re Watching

This year’s legislative session is expected to focus heavily on funding, particularly in light of Maryland’s budget deficit. Fello is closely monitoring conversations related to the Maryland Department of Health’s budget, including funding for the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) that falls under it.

The DDA oversees the approval of waiver services and how people with disabilities and their advocates navigate Maryland’s disability services. As budget decisions unfold, Fello will be paying close attention to any proposed cuts or changes that could impact services.

“There have been proactive steps taken by the provider community and the DDA over the last several months in anticipation of increased budget scrutiny,” said Matt Morgan, Chief Program Officer at Fello. “We are prepared to offer thoughtful recommendations that address fiscal realities while protecting services people rely on.”

Fello is also watching legislation related to housing and community development.

“There are almost a dozen bills related to affordable housing, new construction, and community development already being drafted that our teams are aware of,” said Rylie. “Fello consistently supports bills that expand access to affordable housing and strengthen inclusive communities, and we will be tracking these bills closely.”

Will You Be an Advocate? Sign Up for Action Alerts

The success of Maryland’s 2026 Legislative Session is up to us—all of us.

“Last year, the people we support, our employees, and Fello’s community of advocates came together and were incredibly powerful in shaping the outcomes of the 2025 Legislative Session,” said Rylie. “Lawmakers commended our community on how many calls, emails, and letters were sent—it really influenced the issues being discussed.”

Will you join us in advocating for the services, funding, and opportunities people with disabilities across Maryland deserve? Sign up for Fello’s Action Alerts to stay informed and take action when it matters most.

At Fello, the holiday season is about more than gifts—it’s about creating meaningful memories for children with disabilities and their families. This year, Fello’s Holiday Giving program paired 251 children with donors across the state who gave generously to provide gifts for 99 families this holiday season.

Person-Centered Gift Giving

One of the most unique aspects of Fello’s Holiday Giving program is the ability for families to ask for exactly what their children want and need. The gifts children receive from Fello and the community are based on their wish lists, which are created by the people who know them best.

“The way we do things at Fello is completely individualized,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. “Every gift is specifically chosen for them.”

Parents apply for the program in the fall, providing detailed wish lists, including specific links, specific colors and sizes, and notes about sensory or physical considerations. Applications are reviewed by a committee, and approved applications are matched with a donor completely anonymously.

“Our donors go above and beyond, shopping for the children on their list like they shop for their own children,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development at Fello. “It is an incredible feeling to see boxes of gifts coming in from donor families, companies, and organizations who really care about children in their community having a happy holiday season.”

Whole-Family Support

At Fello, part of our 2Gen philosophy of supporting children with disabilities is supporting their families, too—which includes not just their parents, but their siblings.

“We provide gifts for children with disabilities, as well as their siblings without disabilities,” said Jessica Sauers, Director of 2Gen Initiatives. “Making sure that families who are struggling have meaningful gifts to give to all their children is incredibly important in terms of our family-centered approach to support.”

In addition to gifts for the children, families receive grocery store gift cards tailored to family size, ensuring that every family can make a special meal for the holidays.

“Many families are facing impossible decisions about what necessities they put their money toward,” said Sara. “Providing this support to parents helps the entire family experience the holidays with joy and dignity.”

Creating Opportunity, Creating Memories

Holiday Giving is a 100% donor-funded program. When you give to Fello, you join a legacy of people showing up in meaningful ways for children with disabilities and their families in our communities.

“Our donors are changemakers who give with their whole hearts,” said Caroline. “When you give to Fello, you can feel good knowing that every dollar you give is going toward putting a smile on a child’s face as they open a gift, or a smile on a parent’s face as they pull dinner out of the oven.”

At Fello, we don’t fundraise to keep the lights on. We fundraise to make sure children with disabilities and their families in our communities are thriving.

“Our donors aren’t just buying gifts, they are creating core childhood memories for children with disabilities and their families,” said Caroline.

To learn more about our Holiday Giving program, how to apply for support, or how to purchase gifts for a family next year, click here.

As we close out 2025, I want to extend my sincere thanks to you for being part of a remarkable year for Fello.

This year was one of meaningful growth and transformation. Together, we expanded our reach to support more people than ever before, strengthened our teams, and introduced Fello as our new name—one that reflects our commitment to connection, belonging, and opportunity for people with disabilities across Maryland.

None of this progress would be possible without the dedication, collaboration, and trust of our partners, supporters, and community members. Your belief in our mission helps fuel real impact—opening doors, expanding access to services and housing, and advancing inclusion in tangible ways.

As we look ahead to 2026, we are proud to celebrate Fello’s 65th anniversary and energized by the work still to come. We remain deeply committed to building a future where everyone belongs.

Together, we are Fello. Together, we belong.

For nearly two decades, the Snowflake Ball has been one of Fello’s most beloved annual traditions: a night dedicated to celebrating the relationships, joy, and connection that define our community.  

The Snowflake Ball will return on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the BWI Hilton. Tickets are now sold out.

The Snowflake Ball brings together people with disabilities, their guests, and Fello employees from across the region. It is an opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate together with an evening of fun.  

This year, all 200 tickets were claimed on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Joselyn Hall, a Receptionist at Fello Linthicum, is excited to attend her first-ever Snowflake Ball. “I’m looking forward to meeting the people I support at the front desk every day outside of work—DSPs, Fello team members, people in Day Services, and office staff,” she said. “I’m looking forward to just having a good time and taking pictures!” 

That spirit of connection and celebration is what the Snowflake Ball is all about.  

At Fello, community isn’t just something we talk about. It’s something we create together. 

Event Details 

Tickets were $40 per person, and Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) attended for free when accompanying someone they support.

What to Expect: 

• Dinner: A delicious buffet, including vegan and gluten-free selections. 
• Dancing: A lively DJ playing your favorite songs and plenty of space to enjoy the music with friends. 
• Photo Booth: Fully accessible, designed so everyone can participate and capture memories of the night. 
• Raffle Prizes: Every guest receives a raffle ticket, and exciting prizes are drawn throughout the evening. 

Recommended Dress: 

• Semi-formal or festive attire: Wear something that makes you feel great and ready to celebrate!

If you have questions about the event, please contact events@fello.org.  

Giving Tuesday is a global day of generosity held each year on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It’s a chance to support the causes and communities that matter most.  

This year, Giving Tuesday falls on December 2, and Fello’s goal is to raise an additional $10,000 for our Family Fund, a grant program that provides Maryland families with access to the therapies, programs, and resources that their children with disabilities need, but insurance doesn’t cover.  

You can be part of the next child’s story of possibility this Giving Tuesday by generously supporting our Family Fund, knowing you are making a real difference in the life of a child in your community. 

What is the Family Fund?  

Founded in 2017, the Family Fund helps families access the life-changing services, therapies, and resources their children with disabilities deserve that are out of reach financially.  

“Families often have significant out-of-pocket costs and expenses, and it is a real financial barrier to access the resources and experiences their children need,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. 

The Family Fund is more than a grant program—it’s a lifeline for families across Maryland. 

The Impact Only You Can Make 

The Family Fund is 100% supported through generous donations, grants, and community partnerships. Since its founding, the Family Fund has supported hundreds of children across Maryland and has awarded nearly $400,000 to improve the quality of life of children with disabilities. 

“Every dollar donated goes directly to families, making a real, tangible difference in the lives of people right here in our own community,” said Sara. “The Family Fund represents the heart of what we do at Fello—removing barriers and creating access.” 

By easing the financial burden on families, the Family Fund ensures that children with disabilities can be a part of their communities with the support they need and deserve.    

Every Grant is a Story 

By third grade, Trey began to pull away from other children. He wanted to connect, but starting conversations, reading social cues, and building friendships felt overwhelming. Equine therapy offered a way to build confidence and communication skills—but it was financially out of reach for his family.  

Thanks to the Family Fund, Trey was able to begin therapy without his family sacrificing essentials like groceries or bills. Today, he has a new confidence, new skills, and new ways to connect with others.  

“To the donors, I would just say thank you,” said Trey’s mother. “They are part of the reason why my son is able and capable of doing great things today.” 

Trey is just one of the many lives transformed through the Family Fund.  

On Giving Tuesday, be sure to check out the stories of Tanner and Karleigh, who have each gained new skills, confidence, and opportunities to participate more fully in their communities.  

Their journeys are a reminder that every gift, no matter the size, opens doors for children with disabilities and their families. 

You Can Be Part of a Family’s Story 

This Giving Tuesday, you have the power to create more stories like Trey’s. 

Donate Today: Every contribution brings us closer to our $10,000 goal. Your gift, no matter the size, will directly benefit children and families in our community. Click here to donate now. 

Share Our Work: Connect with us on social media and share our mission with friends and family. You can also share this blog or tell others why you support the Family Fund. 

Together, we can ensure that every child has access to the therapies, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed. 

One year after opening, Port Street Commons is already reimagining what’s possible when it comes to creating community and fostering inclusion. 

In Episode 6 of our Fello Thinking Differently podcast, Judi Olinger, Vice President of Housing Strategy, and Keenan Troxler, Assistant Director of Property Operations, reflect on the first year of Port Street Commons.  

Together, they discuss the sense of community that has come to define Port Street Commons, and why leaders across Maryland are looking to it as an example of what is possible when housing development puts people first. 

Not Your Traditional Developer  

At Fello Communities, tenants are more than residents—they’re neighbors and members of a community. That philosophy guides every aspect of our work, from property management and tenant services to maintenance support and leasing partnerships. 

“At Fello Communities, we certainly do strive to be the best landlords ever, the best property management company of all time,” said Keenan during the interview. “We want to offer the premier tenant services and experience for all of our tenants…I can certainly attest that the team we have truly thinks with their heart.” 

From responsive and supportive Maintenance Technicians to leaders who approach the design, construction, and pricing with the best interests of residents in mind, Fello Communities is redefining what it means to develop housing. Port Street Commons is an example of heart-driven leadership creating a lasting impact in a community.  

We’re Successful “When We Change People’s Lives” 

At Fello Communities, success isn’t just measured in occupied units; it’s measured in the lives we impact. 

“Our teams go above and beyond what’s required to truly meet the needs of our tenants,” says Keenan. “For instance, not too long ago, we hosted a back-to-school social event at Port Street Commons, where we were able to provide back-to-school supplies for eight of the children living there. Things like this set us apart from traditional landlords and also from the traditional tenant experience.” 

Creating positive tenant experiences goes far beyond responding quickly to maintenance requests and answering questions about leases. It means being there when it counts.   

Whether it’s a kindergartener starting school or a senior seeking accessible housing, Fello Communities strives to create an experience where residents feel supported and valued. Judi recalls an early team discussion about success: 

“When we hired new Maintenance Technicians, we asked, ‘What does it mean for us to be successful?’ One of the guys looked up and said, ‘When we change people’s lives.’ That’s what we’re talking about when we’re talking about the impact we strive to create.” 

It’s More Than a Building. It’s a Community 

Port Street Commons isn’t just housing; it’s a thriving, interconnected community. Neighbors know each other’s names, families gather on the playground, and the nearby Rail Trail connects residents to the broader Easton community.  

“We want to try to build personal relationships with each and every one of our tenants,” said Keenan. “And everybody knows each other…I think it’s just amazing how we’ve been able to form this cohesive community within the building.” 

Fello created Port Street Commons with a vision of it being a space where everyone could feel like they belong. “It has exceeded every expectation we had,” said Judi.  

Affordable Housing Can Be Beautiful Housing 

Port Street Commons offers nine affordable units, including two accessible units and one reserved for families transitioning out of homelessness in partnership with Talbot Interfaith Shelter. Each unit is thoughtfully designed with 42-inch counters, granite countertops, in-unit washer/dryer, and high-quality finishes—proof that affordability doesn’t mean compromising on quality. 

“When people walk into our units for the first time, they are stunned,” Keenan says. “You would never know it’s an affordable unit. This is about creating opportunity for everybody.” 

Units provide affordable housing options for working families who might otherwise be priced out of the area. 

What’s Next for Easton 

The success of Port Street Commons is inspiring the next wave of Fello Communities projects: 

• Laura House – A 7-unit mansion-style home in downtown Easton, including two affordable units and one for Talbot Interfaith Shelter. 
• Silo Court – A two-acre development with 28 townhomes, a mix of three- and four-bedroom units, 25% reserved for families earning 85% AMI or below. 
• Easton Crossing – Transforming a 6.5-acre grain silo site into a mixed-use development with 117 residential units, parks, retail, and 30% affordable housing. 

Each project builds on the foundation laid by Port Street Commons: intentional, inclusive, and community-centered housing.  

Join Us in Building What’s Possible 

Port Street Commons shows what happens when housing is designed around people, not profit. It’s a place where neighbors become a community, and residents thrive in spaces that are welcoming, supportive, and beautiful. 

“Our job isn’t finished,” Keenan reminds us. “But developments like Port Street Commons are a glimpse of what’s possible when organizations like Fello think differently.” 

Learn more at fellocommunities.org and listen to Episode 6 of the Fello Thinking Differently podcast. 

Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello, took to the TEDx-style stage at the Maryland Economic Development Association’s (MEDA) Main Street Maryland Conference to share a message that resonated across the room: If we want thriving, connected downtowns, we must build communities where everyone can live, work, and belong. 

The conference brought together leaders from across the state who are advancing housing initiatives and reimagining what’s possible for Maryland’s main streets. Jonathon’s talk added an essential perspective—affordable housing is a powerful tool to strengthen downtowns. It’s an approach grounded in equity, access, and the belief that strong communities grow when people have real opportunities to put down roots. 

Watch Jonathon’s full talk to see how inclusive development is reimagining what’s possible for main streets across Maryland. 

Asking the Right Questions About Revitalization 

Fello’s story began with families who wanted their children with disabilities to be fully included, to have real equity, real access, and real opportunities to live as independently as possible. That foundation continues to guide our work today, shaping how we think about housing, community, and belonging. 

Yet when towns and cities plan revitalization efforts, one question is often missing: Where will people live, and who will those homes be for? 

At the conference, Jonathon asked attendees how many couldn’t afford to live in the communities where they work. Nearly half of the room raised their hands. It’s a reality felt by teachers, service workers, and other essential employees who keep our main streets moving. 

People want to live close to their jobs, to gather with neighbors, and to feel connected to the heart of their community. That opportunity should be available to everyone. 

Turning Empty Spaces into Thriving Places 

Fello is expanding access to affordable housing by transforming empty, overlooked, or underused spaces into developments that bring people together. In Easton, that vision is taking shape as former agricultural and industrial sites become mixed-use communities filled with apartments, townhomes, green spaces, and opportunities for local businesses.  

These projects aren’t theoretical; they’re already reshaping what it means to live where and how you choose. Port Street Commons expanded access to nine new families who now have a place they can proudly call home. 

For Jonathon, the impact comes into sharp focus in one moment: the day a resident receives the key to their apartment. That key represents access, stability, and a sense of possibility that wasn’t previously available. 

Building Main Streets Where Everyone Belongs 

Reimagining Maryland’s main streets is about creating communities where people can truly live, work, and belong. Jonathon’s message at the MEDA conference was clear: inclusive, affordable housing is the foundation of revitalization. 

By revitalizing spaces, increasing access to affordable housing, and promoting equity, we are creating vibrant, inclusive communities throughout Maryland.  

Watch Jonathon’s full TEDx-style talk to see how Fello is turning this vision into action. 

Each year, the Waterfowl Festival brings people together to celebrate what makes the Eastern Shore special—its heritage.  

On November 14, Fello joined the 54th annual festival to host the Community Impact Breakfast in partnership with the Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism and the Waterfowl Festival. 

Held annually on the festival’s opening morning, the Community Impact Breakfast brings together business leaders, local officials, and community members to celebrate the start of one of Maryland’s beloved cultural traditions.  

Fello Brings Leaders Together 

On Friday, nearly 120 people gathered for a morning of conversation about how conservation and cultural celebration fuel economic development and strengthen community well-being in Talbot County and beyond. 

For Fello, events like the Waterfowl Festival are an opportunity to build space for meaningful conversations about inclusion and belonging for people with disabilities and all Marylanders in our communities.  

“Events like the Waterfowl Festival remind us that community isn’t built in isolation,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “Community is created when we come together as community leaders, learn from each other, and envision better futures together that benefit everyone.” 

Fello has proudly sponsored the Community Impact Breakfast for nearly five years because the conversations community leaders have at this event are meaningful and impactful.  

Guests heard from an array of speakers about the future possibilities of economic growth and sustainability in the region, including Steven A. Connelly, Deputy Secretary, Maryland Department of Agriculture; Karina Stonesifer, Director, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife & Heritage Services; Deena Kilmon, Executive Director, Waterfowl Festival; Cassandra Vanhooser, Director, Talbot County Economic Development & Tourism; and Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. 

These conversations matter because they bring together the leaders who make change possible in our communities.  

Our neighborhoods, towns, and regions depend on collaboration, shared purpose, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to belong and succeed. 

“The Waterfowl Festival and Fello share the same goal of creating opportunities for everyone to participate fully in their community,” said Jonathon. “As Fello looks to the future of developing Easton Crossing and Silo Court in Easton, conversations about sustainability and creating community are critical, and they’re happening here at Waterfowl.” 

Celebrating What Brings Us Together 

Events like the Waterfowl Festival strengthen every part of community life. Each year, the Waterfowl Festival generates economic impact that sustains local businesses, preserves and celebrates regional heritage, and creates opportunities for people to connect across different experiences.  

This year, over the three days of the festival, 25,000 visitors will explore the work of 350 artists and vendors. Since its founding, the Waterfowl Festival has contributed $5.7 million to conservation efforts. 

Events like this fuel what makes communities great: families discover new traditions, artists sharing their craft, and neighbors coming together around what connects us. 

Most importantly, they remind us that belonging doesn’t happen by accident—it happens through intention, partnership, and commitment. 

That’s why Fello continues to invest in this event and others like it. Because when we create spaces where everyone can participate, contribute, and belong, we build the kind of community where everyone can thrive. 

This Veterans Day, we’re proud to recognize Tabitha, an Army veteran who served for 20 years and now brings that same dedication to supporting her son at Fello. 

Tabitha served in the U.S. Army from 1993 to 2013, achieving the rank of E-6. She was drawn to the military by a desire to be part of something bigger than herself, and that sense of purpose continues to guide her today. 

Now a mom of six, Tabitha works as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Fello, where she’s found a new mission that hits even closer to home: supporting her 30-year-old son through Self-Directed Services.  

A New Mission 

When her son aged out of the programs at Kennedy Krieger, a social worker shared options for continued support. Fello immediately stood out.  

“Fello was well known and the most popular,” said Tabitha. What really caught her attention was Fello’s approach to inclusion: “They were diverse, as far as different people they supported, and the people who work there.” 

Valuing diversity mattered to Tabitha. In the military, she served alongside people from many backgrounds and experiences and knew that diversity strengthens a team and helps build understanding. Tabitha recognized that same commitment to inclusion at Fello and knew it was an organization worth exploring.  

What began as a search for the right support for her son became an opportunity for her, too. Inspired by Fello’s mission and the people she met, Tabitha joined Fello as a DSP. Now, Tabitha gets to do something she genuinely loves.  

“I like to go to different places and do activities with my son,” she said. “I get to help him be a member of society and experience life.”  

Service, Duty, Respect 

When asked how her military experience shows up in her work, Tabitha shared three words: service, duty, respect. 

For Tabitha, duty is all about following through no matter what. “When you start a job, you finish the job,” she said. “Even though the person may be going through something, you make sure they are okay.”  

For Tabitha, this has always meant putting the person first. This approach aligns closely with Fello’s mission to provide person-centered support that honors each person’s needs, choices, and experiences. 

The Army also taught her how to support people during difficult moments and how to show up for people in meaningful ways. “In the military, we had people going through different circumstances that often made them feel unheard,” said Tabitha. “I became their counselor, friend, boss, and confidante.” 

Tabitha learned to be flexible, to understand what may trigger someone, and to really listen. “Everything isn’t just black and white. You have to figure out the root of the problem and put time into that person to know what’s going on.” 

Those 20 years of service shaped how she supports others today. “Without my military experience, I would have started from scratch. I would have had to learn a lot more basics in communication,” she said.  

Instead, Tabitha came to Fello with the patience and understanding needed to support her son and others. 

More Than Just a Job 

There’s something else Tabitha found at Fello that reminds her of her military days: a sense of genuine care and loyalty.

“Fello shows they really do care. It’s not just a job,” she says. “I have a lot of love and respect for Fello, and I love the way they do things.” 

This Veterans Day, we honor Tabitha and all veterans who continue to serve their communities every day. Service does not stop with a uniform. It grows into new forms of leadership, purpose, and connection.  

Your vote is your voice, and every voice deserves to be heard. For Maryland voters with disabilities, accessible voting is about more than convenience—it’s about inclusion and self-determination. This guide covers what you need to know about voting access in Maryland, including your rights, available accommodations, accessible ballot options, and trusted election resources.

At Fello, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to participate fully in the decisions that shape their community.

Why Voting Matters for People with Disabilities

Your Voice Shapes Your World

Every decision made by elected officials affects the daily lives of people with disabilities—health care, transportation, disability services, housing, and more.

When you vote, you’re not just casting a ballot—you’re making sure your experience is seen, heard, and valued in the policies that shape your life and your community.

Turning Votes into Change

Voting shows what matters to communities. It determines how resources are allocated, rights are protected, how accessible public transit is funded, and how programs supporting independence and inclusion are maintained.

Your vote turns personal experience into public impact.

Visibility That Matters

When people with disabilities show up at the polls, it sends a powerful message—that accessibility, equity, and inclusion matter.

High turnout amplifies advocacy, helps break down systemic barriers, and reminds leaders that every voice counts.

Federal Protections & Rights for Voting with a Disability

Accessible voting in Maryland is built on a strong foundation of federal protections that ensure every voter can participate fully, privately, and independently.

These laws make it clear that accessibility isn’t optional—it’s a right.

The first major step came in 1984 with the Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act (VAEHA). This law requires that all registration facilities and polling places for federal elections be accessible to people with disabilities. It also prevents states from asking voters with disabilities to provide medical proof in order to vote via absentee ballot—a critical step toward fairness and dignity at the ballot box.

In 2002, the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) strengthened these protections. HAVA requires every polling place in federal elections to have at least one accessible voting system, like a ballot-marking device. These tools allow voters with disabilities to cast their ballots privately and independently, using features like audio guidance, large print, or alternative input methods.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title II, extends these protections to all state and local government services, including elections. That means polling places must provide reasonable accommodations, like ramps, clear signage, and accessible layouts, so that every voter can enter, navigate, and cast their ballot without unnecessary barriers.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and other civil rights laws reinforce these protections by prohibiting discrimination in any program or activity that receives federal funding, including elections.

Together, these laws form the backbone of accessible voting in the United States, ensuring that people with disabilities have the same opportunity to participate in democracy as everyone else.

Take Action: Ready to make your voice heard? Federal law guarantees your right to accessible voting. Plan ahead by checking your voter registration or requesting a mail-in ballot to make sure your experience at the polls is smooth and empowering.

Maryland State Accessible Voting Laws & Policies

In Maryland, accessible voting isn’t just a priority—it’s the law. The Maryland State Board of Elections ensures that all early voting centers are fully accessible, and that every polling place offers an accessible ballot marking device (BMD). These devices include features like audio guidance, large print, high-contrast displays, and assistive input options, making it easier for voters with disabilities to cast their ballots independently and privately.

For voters with print disabilities, the state also provides an online accessible ballot marking tool. This tool allows voters to mark their ballots digitally, then print and mail them back, ensuring accessibility extends to those voting from home or remotely.

Voting Rights for People Under Guardianship

Maryland protects the voting rights of people under guardianship. A person can be disqualified from voting only if a court determines, by clear and convincing evidence, that they are unable to communicate a desire to vote—even with reasonable accommodations.

For example, a person who uses an assistive device or gestures to indicate their voting choices still retains their right to vote. Only if a court finds that a person cannot express their intent to participate in any way would that right be removed.

Continued Commitment to Access

Recent legislation, like the Accessible and Expedited Voting Act (SB 66), reinforces Maryland’s dedication to accessible voting. The law encourages local election boards to adopt procedures that make voting faster and more supportive for older adults and people with disabilities, ensuring that every Marylander has a fair and accessible opportunity to make their voice heard.

Accessible Voting Options in Maryland

Voting at the Polls

Every polling place and early voting center must provide a ballot marking device (BMD), like the ExpressVote system. These machines include a range of accessibility features: audio ballots through a headset, keypad navigation, high-contrast and large-print displays, adjustable screens, and support for assistive input devices like sip-and-puff systems.

Your Rights to Assistance

Voters may bring a trusted person—a friend, family member, or Direct Support Professional—to help mark their ballot. That helper signs a Voter Assistance Form, confirming they’re providing support, not influencing choices.

Accommodations at Polling Places

Election officials are required to provide reasonable accommodations such as ramps, seating, adjusted paths, and reachable voting equipment. Poll workers are trained to assist with BMDs and explain features like audio ballots or alternative input methods.

If Your Polling Place is Inaccessible

 If a polling place isn’t accessible, voters can request curbside voting, be reassigned to an alternate accessible location, or vote early or by mail.

Voting by Mail

Any registered voter can request a mail-in ballot. For people who find it difficult to mark a paper ballot, the state offers an online accessible ballot marking tool. This tool allows voters to make their selections electronically using assistive technology, print their completed ballot, and then return it just like any other mail-in ballot.

How to Request a Mail-in Ballot

Any registered Maryland voter can request a mail-in ballot, no special reason required. You can request one:

• Online through the Maryland Voter Services portal
• By mail, phone, or in person at your local board of elections

No medical certificate or proof of disability is ever required. Both Maryland law and federal law, including the VAEHA, protect this right.

Returning Your Mail-in Ballot

Once completed, mail-in ballots can be returned in one of three secure ways:

• By mail (must be postmarked by Election Day)
• By placing them in an official drop box
• By hand-delivering them to your local board of elections

Ballots cannot be returned electronically by email or fax to ensure ballot security and consistency in the voting process.

Need Help Printing Your Ballot?

If you’re unable to print your ballot at home, contact your local board of elections as soon as possible—they may be able to mail you a pre-printed ballot or offer other accommodations. Since options vary by county, it’s best to reach out directly to confirm what’s available in your area.

Where to Find Official, Up-to-Date Voter Information

The Maryland State Board of Elections is the central hub for accessibility guidance, voter registration, polling place locations, and election tools. For additional state-level guidance on voting rights and accessible procedures, the U.S. Vote Foundation’s Maryland Voters with Disabilities Guide offers practical tips and instructions.

Disability Rights Maryland provides advocacy, resources, and a hotline to report any accessibility challenges at the polls. National hotlines like Election Protection (1-866-OUR-VOTE) are also available to help voters experiencing discrimination, malfunctioning equipment, or other issues.

For general election dates, deadlines, and candidate information, Vote411 Maryland and Ballotpedia are reliable, nonpartisan sources.

Finally, check your local county website for updates on polling place changes, email alerts, or newsletters from disability advocacy groups. These local notifications can help you plan ahead and ensure your vote is counted.

By using these resources, Maryland voters with disabilities can confidently navigate the voting process, knowing they have the tools and support needed.

Next Steps for Success on Election Day

Here’s what you can do right now to ensure success on election day:

• Check your voter registration status at the Maryland State Board of Elections website
• Request a mail-in ballot if voting from home is more accessible for you
• Locate your polling place and confirm it has accessible features
• Know your rights and don’t hesitate to ask for accommodations
• Report problems by calling 1-866-OUR-VOTE if you experience barriers

If you or someone you know has a disability, use the tools and protections available — and insist on access. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations at rshewbridge@fello.org.

Stay Connected & Informed

Want to stay up to date on important legislative updates, disability rights, and community news? Connect with Fello:

• Join Our Newsletter
• Follow Fello on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube

Keep Advocating Beyond the Ballot

Voting is just one way to make your voice heard. Fello’s Living Boldly Self-Advocacy Group empowers people with disabilities to represent themselves, share ideas, and drive meaningful change. This public group is open to anyone with a disability—you don’t need to receive Fello services to participate.

Join the next Living Boldly meeting and continue shaping the communities you want to live in.