Louisiana Senate Bill SB2

Louisiana 2011 1st Special Session

• Introduced: 3/20/11
• Refer: 3/20/11

Caption

Provides for redistricting of Louisiana's congressional districts.

Impact

The impact of SB2 on state laws will be significant, as it will repeal the existing statutes that govern the seven congressional districts and replace them with provisions establishing the new six-district framework. This alteration is expected to influence not only the election process for representatives but also other local offices that rely on these congressional districts for their electoral boundaries. The bill outlines the mechanisms for filling vacancies and what terms will apply to existing congressional members until the new districts are in effect.

Summary

Senate Bill 2 (SB2) is a legislative proposal aimed at redistricting Louisiana's congressional districts from seven to six. The bill is designed to reshape the boundaries of these districts to ensure a more equitable representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. Following the census and subsequent population shifts, the reduced number of districts intends to better reflect the state's demographics and population distribution. This change requires the enactment of new regulations and adjustments to the existing law governing congressional districts.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB2 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that reducing the number of congressional districts will allow for a more streamlined governmental approach and could lead to more effective representation. They suggest that this change may enable better resource allocation and governmental responsiveness to the needs of a more concentrated population. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the potential loss of representation for certain communities and the implications that redistricting may have on political power dynamics within the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions around SB2 include the process of redistricting itself and the concerns over ensuring fair representation for all demographics, especially minority groups who may feel their voices are diminished in a reduced district structure. Critics argue that the move could disenfranchise voters and create disparities in electoral influence, especially in historically underserved areas. These debates highlight the tension between the need for effective governance and the imperative of maintaining robust democratic representation.