Bill > HJRCA0018

This Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment proposes to change how legislative districts in Illinois are drawn by creating an Independent Redistricting Commission, which would be responsible for creating maps for both the State Senate (Legislative Districts) and House of Representatives (Representative Districts) following each federal census. The Commission would consist of 11 members selected through a process involving an Applicant Review Panel and random drawings, with specific requirements to ensure diverse representation and prevent partisan bias, and would need at least seven votes to approve a redistricting plan, including support from members of different political parties. If the Commission fails to agree on a plan by a set deadline, a Special Commissioner, appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, would be tasked with creating the redistricting plan. The amendment also outlines criteria for drawing districts, such as maintaining contiguity, equal population, and respecting the integrity of local governments and communities, while prohibiting dilution of minority voting strength or partisan discrimination.