This bill introduces a new section to the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) that establishes specific criteria for redistricting. The new section, 14:14-d, outlines several requirements that must be adhered to when creating districts for the New Hampshire Senate, House of Representatives, or any related subcommittees. Key criteria include compliance with both the United States and New Hampshire constitutions, the creation of single boundaries that respect the geographic integrity of cities and towns, and the drawing of districts in compact shapes. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of considering communities of interest, defined as areas with shared similarities, while explicitly excluding political affiliations from this definition.
The bill also stipulates that the redistricting plan must not favor or disfavor any political party, incumbent, or candidate, nor should it unduly favor or disfavor any racial or language group. This legislation aims to ensure fair and equitable representation in the redistricting process by establishing clear guidelines that prioritize population equality, geographic integrity, and community interests. The act will take effect immediately upon its passage.