CACR 19, as amended by the House, is a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to establish an Independent Redistricting Commission in New Hampshire, tasked with drawing election district boundaries for state and federal elections. The goal is to eliminate partisan gerrymandering and ensure fair representation. The commission would be composed of public members who meet certain eligibility criteria, including a two-year residency in the state and no recent political office holding. The amendment outlines a detailed process for selecting commission members, creating redistricting plans, and handling challenges to the final maps. The commission would have the authority to redistrict following the federal census, with the New Hampshire Supreme Court having jurisdiction over any disputes. The amendment is set to be voted on by the public in the November 2024 state general election.
The resolution also redefines the apportionment of state representatives and the formation of senatorial districts, transferring this responsibility from the legislature to the Independent Redistricting Commission. It emphasizes that towns and wards should remain undivided in the process of forming districts. The commission's terms would last ten years, with members barred from making political contributions during their service. The commission must follow specific criteria when redistricting, including compliance with federal and state laws, and a plan must be approved by a majority that includes at least one member from each major political affiliation. If the commission fails to adopt a plan, the Supreme Court will appoint a special master to do so. The amendment, if approved by a two-thirds voter majority, will take effect upon the governor's proclamation.