Purpose of the Bill

The bill proposes changes to the Minnesota Constitution and state laws to establish an Independent Redistricting Commission, introduce a Redistricting Commission Applicant Review Panel, set principles for drawing district boundaries, and impose restrictions on lobbying by former legislators.

Main Provisions

• Independent Redistricting Commission:

  • Establishes a 15-member commission to draw congressional and legislative district boundaries following each federal decennial census.
  • Members include five supporters of the state's two major political parties and five unaffiliated members.
  • Appointment process involves a Screening Panel of retired judges to ensure impartiality and qualified applicants.

• Lobbying Restrictions:

  • Prohibits former legislators from serving as lobbyists for one year after leaving office.
  • Legislators cannot be employed or receive compensation as a lobbyist while serving.

• Redistricting Principles:

  • Districts must be contiguous, respect communities of interest, and ensure equal population sizes.
  • Plans should not favor or disfavor candidates or political parties and must adhere to federal laws like the Voting Rights Act.

• Transparency and Public Participation:

  • Requires public hearings and opportunity for public comment on proposed district maps.
  • Commission meetings should be accessible electronically and in multiple languages.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Amends the procedure and principle for drawing congressional and legislative districts by mandating an independent commission instead of legislative control.
• Introduces a one-year lobbying prohibition post-legislative service for former Minnesota legislators.
• Modifies the scheduling and conduct of Minnesota’s legislative sessions to enhance transparency and limit the duration.

Relevant Terms

• Independent Redistricting Commission
• Redistricting Commission Applicant Review Panel
• Federal Decennial Census
• Lobbying Restrictions
• Voting Rights Act
• Public Hearings
• Political Affiliation
• Transparency
• Legislative Sessions