# COMAR Title 33 — State Board of Elections

## Subtitle 01 — Definitions; General Provisions

### Chapter 06 — Candidate Names

#### Regulation .04 Alternative Names.

*COMAR 33.01.06.04*

A. Determination. For an alternative name to be permissible, the State Administrator or designee shall make a determination that the alternative name:

  (1) Includes at least a first name or initial;

  (2) Except as provided in §B of this regulation includes the candidate's given last name; and

  (3) Does not include:

    (a) A title, honorary title, or word that gives the impression of a title;

    (b) A description of an activity, event, or experience;

    (c) A reference to a business or commercial enterprise of the candidate; or

    (d) An offensive or derogatory word or phrase.

B. Permissive Alternative Names. A candidate may file an alternative name using a last name other than the candidate's given last name if the candidate:

  (1) Either:

    (a) Is legally entitled to use a last name other than the candidate's given last name; or

    (b) Was party to an absolute divorce and continues to use the given name prior to the divorce; and

  (2) Files an affidavit in support of alternative name as required under Regulation .03 of this chapter.