Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas House Bill HB2456

Introduced
3/9/23  
Refer
3/9/23  

Caption

Imposing requirements for reapportionment legislation.

Impact

This legislation aims to eliminate partisan manipulation during the redistricting process. By stipulating that districts cannot be drawn primarily to benefit or disadvantage any political party, the bill seeks to promote fair representation and prevent gerrymandering. Furthermore, it underscores the significance of maintaining county boundaries and accommodating communities of interest, thus respecting local demographics and geographical considerations in boundary decisions.

Summary

House Bill 2456 is a legislative measure focused on the processes and requirements for drawing congressional, state senatorial, representative, and educational district boundaries in Kansas. The bill establishes a framework ensuring that apportionment plans are fair, transparent, and equitable, emphasizing the importance of population equality across districts. It mandates that all districts be numerically balanced within a 5% deviation from the ideal population, derived from the latest decennial census.

Conclusion

Overall, HB 2456 represents a significant step towards refining the legislative approach to redistricting in Kansas. It embodies a commitment to ensuring that the electoral maps created reflect genuine demographic compositions and serve the aspirations of all voters while seeking to minimize political manipulation. The bill highlights the ongoing effort to foster a democratic process that is fair and accessible to all.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2456 may involve debates on how effectively it can prevent political bias in district drawing. Critics may argue about the potential limitations in considering political party membership and how the definition of ‘communities of interest’ is handled. The stipulation that all plans should comply with population equity standards may also provoke discussions about the adequacy of those measures when addressing diverse community needs, particularly for minority groups.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KS S0728

State Reapportionment

KS H0619

State Reapportionment

KS H0023

State Reapportionment

KS SR58

Legislative and Congressional Reapportionment; independent nonpartisan commission instead of the General Assembly; provide

KS SB131

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated and distinct amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, repealing provisions relating to Legislative Reapportionment Commission and providing for Independent Redistricting Commission and for redistricting criteria.

KS HB31

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated and distinct amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, repealing provisions relating to Legislative Reapportionment Commission and providing for Independent Redistricting Commission and for redistricting criteria.

KS SCR1618

Proposing amendments to article 10 of the constitution of the state of Kansas to establish requirements for reapportioning congressional, state senatorial, state representative and board of education districts and prohibit the reapportionment thereof except when required by the constitution of the state of Kansas or when ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction.

KS HB3031

Relating to the reapportionment of state legislative, congressional, and judicial districts and the functions and duties of the independent redistricting commission.

KS SB39

Legislative Committee on Reapportionment; appointment of members to committee revised

KS SB124

Proposing Amendments To Article Iv, Sections 4 And 6, Of The Hawaii State Constitution Regarding Reapportionment.

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