In Maryland, the office of Lieutenant Governor originally was created by the Constitution of 1864 and functioned from 1865 to 1868. The office was reestablished by Constitutional amendment in 1970 (Chapter 532, Acts of 1970, ratified Nov. 3, 1970).
State House (view from Francis St.), Annapolis, Maryland, April 2000. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
The Lieutenant Governor chairs the Cabinet Council on Business, Economic Development, and Transportation; the Cabinet Council on Criminal and Juvenile Justice; the Cabinet Council on Transportation and Economic Development; the State House Trust; the Maryland Partnership for Children, Youth, and Families; and the Advisory Board on After-School Opportunity Programs. The Lieutenant Governor also co-chairs the Family Violence Council, and serves on the Governor's Executive Council; Forvm for Rural Maryland; and the Governor's Commission on Service and Volunteerism.
As the second-ranking officer of the State, the Lieutenant Governor is chosen for a four-year term by popular vote at the same election at which the Governor is elected. The Lieutenant Governor's term of office begins on the third Wednesday in January following election. Eligibility requirements for Lieutenant Governor are the same as those for the Governor.
© Copyright Maryland State Archives