Bill > H59

This bill proposes a legislative amendment to the Massachusetts Constitution to create an independent redistricting commission. The key provisions are: 1. The commission, consisting of 7 members appointed by the governor, attorney general, and secretary of the commonwealth, would be responsible for drawing the state's legislative districts every 10 years following the federal census. The commissioners must meet certain criteria related to political independence and diversity. 2. The commission must draw districts that are contiguous, equal in population, and comply with federal law, while also considering factors like municipal boundaries and communities of interest. The process must be transparent, with public hearings and opportunities for public input on proposed district maps. 3. The commission's proposed district maps would be submitted to the state legislature for an up-or-down vote, with no amendments allowed. If the legislature rejects the maps, the commission would revise and resubmit them until they are approved or the commission finalizes the maps without legislative approval. 4. Voters would have the ability to challenge the districts in the state's Supreme Judicial Court, which would have original jurisdiction over such claims.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H59