In Maryland, the office of Lieutenant Governor originally was created by the Constitution of 1864 and functioned from 1865 to 1868. In 1970, the office was reestablished by Constitutional amendment (Chapter 532, Acts of 1970, ratified Nov. 3, 1970).
The Lieutenant Governor performs duties delegated by the Governor (Const., Art. II, secs. 1, 1A, 2). In the event of a vacancy in the office of Governor, the Lieutenant Governor succeeds to that office. The Lieutenant Governor also serves as acting governor when notified in writing by the Governor that the Governor will be temporarily unable to perform the duties of office (Const., Art. II, secs. 4, 5, 6).
The Lieutenant Governor chairs the Cabinet Council on Criminal and Juvenile Justice; the Governor's Task Force on Children, Youth, and Families Systems Reform; and the State House Trust. The Lieutenant Governor also co-chairs the Family Violence Council and serves on the Governor's Executive Council.
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.
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