What is a special session of the Maryland General Assembly?
The regular legislative session of the Maryland General Assembly convenes on the second Wednesday in January every year and meets for 90 consecutive days (unless the regular session is extended). The period between that annual legislative session (and any extensions of it) and the next annual session is called the interim. A special session of the legislature is called when issues requiring legislative action arise during the interim period. | | Read more on the October 2007 special session of the Maryland General Assembly | |
Who calls a special legislative session?
The governor calls a special session after a majority of the members of each Maryland's two legislatures (the Senate and House of Delegates) join in a petition for a special session. However, it is up to the leaders of each legislature in the Maryland General Assembly to compel attendance and punish absences. Absences are generally excused by the presiding officer of each legislature.How long is a special session of the Maryland General Assembly?
In Maryland a special legislative session can be no more than 30 days. Unlike the regular legislative session, it cannot be extended, but a new special legislative session may be called. However, new bills would have to be introduced in the new session.Lawmakers are not required to stay in Annapolis for the entire duration of the special session. Each legislature may adjourn during the session for up to three days, without the consent of the other legislature. These adjournments are often done between hearings and floor votes.
Why would a special session be called?
A special session is often called to address a specific, usually time-sensitive issue. However, other legislation not related to this issue can be introduced. Usually though, such legislation is referred to the rules committee of each legislative house where it often dies in committee.
How many special legislative sessions have there been?
The October 2007 special session, called by Governor Martin O'Malley, was Maryland's 14th since 1970.
