Bill > LD944

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to modify the composition of the Maine House of Representatives by changing the number of representatives from a fixed 151 members to an odd number between 151 and 155 members. The proposed amendment would maintain the existing redistricting principles, which require that representatives be allocated based on population, with districts being contiguous, compact, and minimizing crossovers of political subdivision lines. If approved, the amendment would be put to a statewide voter referendum in November, where voters will be asked to vote "Yes" or "No" on the question of whether to allow the House of Representatives to have between 151 and 155 members. The ballot measure would require a majority vote to pass, and if successful, the constitutional amendment would take effect immediately upon the Governor's proclamation. This change provides the Legislature with slightly more flexibility in drawing representative districts while maintaining the core principle of proportional representation based on population.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=944&snum=132