The proposed resolution aims to amend the Arkansas Constitution by creating a "Citizens' Redistricting Commission" to oversee the apportionment and redistricting of districts for the U.S. House of Representatives and the Arkansas General Assembly, replacing the current Board of Apportionment. This new commission will consist of nine commissioners selected through a process that ensures diversity and impartiality, with strict eligibility criteria to exclude individuals with recent political affiliations or lobbying experience. The resolution emphasizes transparency by mandating public meetings, the publication of commission work products, and the disclosure of communications that may influence the commission's actions.
The commission will be responsible for preparing three district maps based on census and election data, ensuring that districts are nearly equal in population, contiguous, and do not favor any political party. Public input will be solicited through hearings in each congressional district, with maps released for comment at least 30 days prior to these hearings. The resolution also grants the Supreme Court original jurisdiction to ensure compliance with the commission's duties and includes a severability clause to maintain the validity of remaining provisions if any part is found invalid. If approved by voters, the amendment will take effect on January 1, 2027, and aims to create a fair and equitable redistricting process in Arkansas.