MARYLAND (WBFF) — Maryland lawmakers moved Tuesday to put a major change to the state’s congressional redistricting rules before voters, advancing a constitutional amendment that would loosen current standards governing how congressional district lines are drawn.
The Maryland House voted 96-38 to advance the proposed amendment. Ninety-six Democrats voted in favor, and 38 Republicans voted against the legislation.
Under the measure, congressional districts would no longer be subject to requirements that they be connected, reasonably shaped and drawn with consideration for existing geographic boundaries. The bill also explicitly states that nothing in the state constitution provides criteria for the boundaries of a congressional districting plan.
The proposal now heads to the Senate. If approved there, it would go to the governor’s desk for approval. After that, it would appear on the ballot for Marylanders to decide in the November general election.
The push follows a rare special session that focused almost entirely on congressional redistricting. Supporters say the amendment would clarify that the General Assembly has broad authority over congressional maps, while opponents argue it removes constitutional safeguards that courts have previously used when reviewing district boundaries.
Speaker Joseline Pena-Melnyk said in a statement, “Today the House has acted on its constitutional responsibility to mee this moment. This legislation does not draw congressional districts. It does not change a single line on a map. And it does not affect the upcoming 2026 election. It simply clarifies Maryland law and gives voters the opportunity to decide whether our Constitution should provide the same legal framework available to other states as they confront the realities of congressional redistricting.”
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