Redistricting In MD: Lawmakers Book Special Session For August

MARYLAND — Officials announced Tuesday that lawmakers will reconvene next month for a special session to consider potential redistricting efforts.

The three-day session will take place in Annapolis between Aug. 3 and 5. Both Senate President Bill Ferguson and House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk announced the move in a joint statement.

The legislation proposes a state constitutional amendment for congressional redistricting standards, and would need a three-fifths approval from both the Senate and House of Delegates in order to advance.

If passed, the proposed measure would then appear on the November ballot for Marylanders participating in this year's general election.

Ferguson said the move was necessary after changes to the Voting Rights Act "created new uncertainty around congressional redistricting."

"This special session gives the General Assembly the opportunity to respond thoughtfully to recent court decisions while ensuring that Maryland voters have the final say on any proposed constitutional changes," said Peña-Melnyk.

Reaction From Maryland's Governor

Shortly after the announcement surfaced, Gov. Wes Moore welcomed the move by lawmakers.

“For months, I have said that inaction is not an option and we cannot sit on the sidelines while voting rights, fair representation, and the foundations of our democracy come under attack across the country," he said in a statement.

"Across the country, we are watching coordinated efforts to weaken voting rights, dilute Black representation, and bend the rules of democracy for partisan gain — at the very moment when core protections of the Voting Rights Act have been gutted and the right to fair representation is under assault. Until we have national redistricting reform, Maryland will not be caught flat-footed."

"My administration will work closely with the General Assembly as they consider legislation to ensure our state has the tools necessary to protect voters and defend fair representation. We are going to stay ready, stay focused, and make sure every Marylander has a voice in the future of our state."

Legislation being weighed is not yet publicly available.