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HB 979

State Constitutional Convention - Question on Ballot - Passage by Majority of Votes Cast

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Hornberger and 1 co-sponsor

HB 979 puts a ballot question to Maryland voters asking if they want to hold a state constitutional convention, allowing potential amendments to the state constitution if approved.

Hearing 3/09 at 2:30 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 979

Legislative bill overview

HB 979 would place a question on Maryland's ballot asking voters whether they want to hold a state constitutional convention. If passed by a majority of votes cast, it would trigger the process to convene delegates who would review and potentially amend the state constitution. This is a procedural bill that seeks voter approval before any constitutional changes could be considered.

Why is this important

Constitutional conventions are rare and significant events that can reshape fundamental state governance structures, individual rights protections, and the distribution of governmental powers. The outcome could affect everything from voting procedures and legislative districts to taxation authority and local government powers. Maryland's last constitutional convention was in 1967, making this a potentially transformative moment if voters approve it.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope uncertainty: Delegates at a convention could propose changes well beyond what any particular group initially intended, creating risk that convention becomes vehicle for controversial amendments unrelated to stated purposes
  • Cost and timing: Constitutional conventions require substantial resources and extended time to conduct properly; concerns about fiscal impact and whether Maryland should prioritize this over other legislative priorities
  • Representation concerns: Questions about how convention delegates would be selected, whether the process ensures diverse representation of Maryland's population, and whether it could be dominated by special interests or ideological factions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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