This educational guide is based on the linked primary sources. It is not a Court publication, is not affiliated with the Court, and is not legal advice.
In brief
Overview
Virginia v. Maryland is a dispute over whether Maryland may regulate Virginia’s water withdrawals and related structures on the Potomac River under an interstate compact.
Background and question before the Court
What each side argues
Maryland’s Position
Source-limited. The record does not yet support a complete account.
Virginia’s Position
Virginia contends that under the compact, its citizens have the right to withdraw water and construct improvements without needing Maryland’s permission.
What happened at oral argument
According to Justice Kennedy, justice Kennedy framed the discussion as a property‑rights issue.
Justice Kennedy asked which constitutional provision was at issue.
What the Court decided
Why it matters
Terms to know
No glossary terms are available for this guide.
Primary sources
Read the source materials on the official site or open the immutable repository copy used for this guide.
- 1a8d71cfa3db22dc8160-r1-e3e90f2c9119ca8a.pdforal argument transcript
Guide generated September 20, 2026. Automated validation accepted this version.