Bill > S17

This bill proposes a legislative amendment to the Massachusetts Constitution that specifies the method of apportioning the General Court, which is the state legislature. The key provisions are: 1) The House of Representatives will consist of 160 members, apportioned among the counties based on their respective populations. Any county with less than 1/160th of the state's population will be combined with the next least populous adjacent county. Cities and towns with more than 1/160th of the state's population will get one representative for each 1/160th of the population. 2) The Senate will consist of 40 members, apportioned among the counties based on their respective populations. Any county or counties with less than 1/40th of the state's population will be combined with the next least populous adjacent county or counties. 3) The General Court may divide districts with more than one representative or senator into single or smaller multiple-member districts, and specify the method of voting for such representatives and senators. The General Court may also limit the time for judicial proceedings challenging such district divisions. 4) The qualifications and manner of electing representatives, senators, and councilors are also specified.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S17