Why can't independents vote for judges?

Would someone please explain why a registered independent cannot vote for judges in the Howard County primary but can vote for the county's Board of Education candidates? What is the rationale since both judges and the school board are non-partisan candidates?

At my polling place, I spoke with a member of the county's board of elections who thought the policy should be changed. She informed me the current procedures are because of the state legislature's actions.

In the interest of fairness, I request the Howard County delegation be proactive and sponsor an amendment to correct this inequity during next year's legislative session. I have spoken to other citizens and they agree this practice is simply wrong.

Stuart M. Kohn, Laurel