Bill > HB203

This bill proposes a significant change to Maryland's redistricting process by establishing a new Legislative and Congressional Redistricting and Apportionment Convention. The convention would consist of 188 members elected from across the state, with each county guaranteed at least three seats. To be eligible for the convention, candidates must be registered voters with specific residency and political party requirements, and they cannot be current elected officials, political party employees, or have close connections to current political figures. The convention would be responsible for drawing legislative and congressional district maps every ten years following the census, with a mandate to create districts that are not designed to favor specific incumbents or political parties. The process would be transparent, with public hearings and livestreamed meetings, and the proposed district maps would be subject to review by the Maryland Supreme Court. If the convention fails to create acceptable maps, the Supreme Court would have the power to establish districts. The bill aims to create a more independent and impartial redistricting process by removing direct legislative influence and increasing public participation. Ultimately, the proposed changes would be submitted to Maryland voters for approval in the November 2026 general election.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0203?ys=2025RS