Annapolis, MD (JK) – Maryland Delegate Christopher Bouchat says he plans to introduce a constitutional amendment establishing a citizen-led redistricting convention if the General Assembly is called into a special session later this summer.
The proposal, previously introduced as House Bill 56 during the 2026 legislative session, would remove the responsibility for drawing Maryland’s legislative and congressional district boundaries from elected officials and place it in the hands of a convention made up of Maryland residents. The convention would include representatives from all 24 political subdivisions, with membership apportioned by population.
Bouchat says the proposal is intended to create a more transparent and publicly accountable redistricting process while giving citizens a direct role in determining legislative and congressional district boundaries.
His announcement comes as state leaders continue discussing the possibility of a special legislative session focused on redistricting following the June primary election. House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk has asked lawmakers to keep potential dates available in mid-July and early August as legislative leaders evaluate whether additional action is needed.
House Bill 56 also proposed creating single-member delegate districts and establishing procedures for the citizen convention, including judicial review of district maps by the Supreme Court of Maryland.
Because the measure would amend the Maryland Constitution, it would require approval by both the General Assembly and Maryland voters before taking effect.
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