Alternate Md. Redistricting Bills Will Get Hearing

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Legislation containing Maryland redistricting plans that are different from Gov. Martin O’Malley’s proposal will get full hearings in a special session next week.

Alexandra Hughes, a spokeswoman for House Speaker Michael Busch, said Friday that all proposals will get a hearing scheduled for Monday, when lawmakers convene for the redistricting session.

Lawmakers had initially only considered taking up amendments to the plan. O’Malley, a Democrat, will be presenting to the General Assembly.

Republican Sen. Nancy Jacobs, the Senate minority leader, called for all proposals in separate legislation to receive hearings.

Aides to Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller said he a favored the request.

O’Malley is still reviewing a draft plan submitted last week by a redistricting advisory committee he appointed.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)