![[photo, U.S. Capitol (west view), Washington, DC]](/msa/mdmanual/39fed/images/1198-1-685.jpg)
U.S. Capitol (west view), Washington, DC, March 2004. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
After each federal census, Congress determines the number of representatives for each state based on population (U.S. Constitution, Art. 1, sec. 2). Maryland retained eight seats in the U.S. House of Representatives following the 2010 federal census.
Boundaries of Maryland's congressional election districts are defined by legislation enacted by the General Assembly. These boundaries have changed over time, and they continue to change. Redistricting enacted by the General Assembly in 2011 changed the congressional election districts prior to the General Election of November 6, 2012.
Local boards of elections are empowered to redefine precinct boundaries but cannot alter the election districts or wards designated by the Legislature. Consequently, boundaries defined by law for some congressional election districts may have undergone changes at the precinct level between enactments of the General Assembly (Code Election Law Article, secs. 2-201 through 2-207).
Precinct boundaries are dynamic. Changes are made to reflect population shifts and to ensure convenient polling places for all voters. Local boards of elections can provide current information on precincts encompassed within each district.
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