The Journey of SB 700: What’s Happening and Why It’s Being Pulled

On February 11, 2025, at 1:32 p.m., Candice Willie from Maryland Notaries In Action contacted Senator Justin Ready’s (bill sponsor) office to inquire about the reason for the proposed Senate Bill 700 (SB700). Senator Ready’s representative explained that she was in communication with the attorney who initially proposed the bill at that very moment and stated she would follow up with additional information about the bill.

At 1:45 p.m., Senator Ready’s representative confirmed that SB 700 would likely be pulled. Initially, the bill was intended to address the needs of individuals who use wheelchairs; however, its scope was later expanded to include individuals who are blind. The representative shared that another Notary Public had contacted Senator Ready’s office to highlight their concerns with the bill, pointing out that the current law already provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The Senator’s representative mentioned some uncertainty about the language in the proposed bill coupled with the Notary Public’s feedback encouraged the Senator’s office to recommend withdrawing the bill. 

Senator Ready’s representative confirmed that a letter would be submitted to the Judicial Committee recommending that the bill be withdrawn. When asked how the public could confirm the bill’s status, the representative encouraged monitoring the Maryland General Assembly website to follow its history and verify when it is officially removed from the legislative process. 

The anticipated withdrawal of SB 700 underscores the importance of civic engagement and staying informed. It is a reminder that thoughtful, well-informed advocacy can influence legislative decisions and ensure policies align with existing protections and community needs. 

P.S. Before publishing this blog, the status of SB700 was checked on February 11, 2025, 10:24 p.m. It is confirmed that the SB700 has been removed. Maryland Notaries In Action believes that the Notary Public’s feedback was instrumental in the reconsideration of SB 700. Without the proactive involvement of the notary who initially raised the concern, the bill may have proceeded through the legislative process without further scrutiny.