Maryland Opens Special Session On Constitutional Redistricting Amendment
On Monday, August 3, 2026, the Maryland General Assembly convened a special session in Annapolis to consider a constitutional amendment that could allow new congressional maps for the 2028 elections.[1]
The proposal would restrict compactness and natural-boundary requirements in state law to General Assembly districts, excluding congressional districts.[1] If three-fifths of both chambers approve, the amendment would appear on the November 3, 2026 ballot.[1]
Democrats say the change is a response to a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that narrowed protections under the Voting Rights Act.[1] Republicans call the effort a partisan power grab aimed at overturning the state's lone GOP-held U.S. House district.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On Monday, August 3, 2026, the Maryland General Assembly convened a special session to consider a redistricting-related constitutional amendment.
- The proposal would specify that compactness and natural-boundary requirements in state law apply only to General Assembly districts, not congressional districts.
- If approved by three-fifths of both chambers, the amendment would appear on the November 3, 2026 ballot and could allow new U.S. House maps for the 2028 elections.
- Democrats say the change responds to a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision weakening the Voting Rights Act, while Republicans label it a power grab aimed at the state’s lone GOP-held district.
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