Public Broadcasters - Debate for Candidates for Statewide Office - Required Participants

HB 101 requires state-funded public broadcasters (like Maryland Public Television) to include all candidates certified for the general election ballot in statewide office debates. It prohibits excluding candidates based on party affiliation, polling numbers, or fundraising, while allowing exclusion only for write-in candidates or those who have suspended their campaigns. If a broadcaster violates this rule, it cannot use state funds for the rest of the fiscal year, and funds must be redirected to other programs. The bill aims to ensure fair debate access for all voters by tying state funding to inclusive debate participation.