Bill > HJR1024

This Joint Resolution directs the Secretary of State to present to Oklahoma voters a proposed amendment to the state Constitution that would shift the power of redistricting legislative and congressional districts from the Legislature to a newly created Citizens' Independent Redistricting Commission. This Commission would consist of nine members, with three representing the state's largest political party, three representing the second-largest party, and three unaffiliated with either of the two major parties, selected by a panel of retired judges from pools of applicants who meet strict qualifications designed to prevent conflicts of interest. The proposed amendment outlines detailed criteria for redistricting, prioritizing communities of interest, racial and ethnic fairness, political fairness, and geographic integrity, while prohibiting consideration of candidates' residences or a population's political affiliation. It also establishes a process for the Commission's operations, including public hearings, data collection, and plan development, with a fallback mechanism involving the Oklahoma Supreme Court if the Commission fails to act, and repeals existing constitutional provisions related to legislative apportionment.