West Virginia 2024 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB4648

Introduced
1/12/24  

Caption

Creating the Independent Redistricting Commission of the Joint Committee on Government and Finance

Impact

If passed, HB 4648 would significantly reform the current redistricting process in West Virginia. The mandate for the Independent Redistricting Commission includes preparing proposed district mappings that should adhere to specific criteria designed to ensure fairness, such as maintaining equal population distribution and avoiding divisions of counties unless absolutely necessary. This addition could greatly transform the legislative landscape by changing how districts are delineated and managed, aiming to minimize partisan gerrymandering and enhance voter representation across the state.

Summary

House Bill 4648 intends to create the Independent Redistricting Commission under the Joint Committee on Government and Finance in West Virginia. The primary purpose of this commission is to establish a fair and balanced approach to redistricting both congressional and state legislative voting districts, ensuring compliance with constitutional principles, particularly concerning population equality. The commission will consist of six members, appointed from both major political parties, and will reflect geographic representation from the state's congressional districts. Importantly, members are prohibited from receiving compensation, but they can be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred during their official duties.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4648 appears to be generally positive among supporters who advocate for increased fairness and transparency in the redistricting process. They argue that an independent commission could help safeguard against political manipulation in the drawing of district lines. However, there exists some contention regarding the commission's authority and the extent to which it will influence local and state-level politics, suggesting that some stakeholders may view this initiative with skepticism. The primary concern centers around whether the commission can operate effectively and impartially amidst political pressures.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention include the potential challenges in achieving consensus within the commission and the manner in which it will publicly engage with the community to solicit input on proposed district mappings. Critics may argue about the likely effectiveness of the commission given the historical difficulties associated with redistricting processes, particularly in maintaining objectivity and public trust. Furthermore, the restrictions on membership, which exclude anyone with recent political affiliations, raise questions about the diversity of perspectives within the commission and the potential for political biases to remain unaddressed.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB2239

Creating the Independent Redistricting Commission of the Joint Committee on Government and Finance

WV HB2394

Require PSC annual report on ratepayer utility costs to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance

WV HB3550

Relating to state political party committees

WV HCR48

Requesting that the Jointy Committee on Government and Finance study the social work services of the DHHR in child abuse and neglect cases.

WV HB3561

Relating generally to creating the Joint Legislative Committee on Civic Life

WV HCR84

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study state aid for students of veterinary medicine

WV HB2953

Creating the Commission on Cost-of-Living Adjustments

WV HB3502

Bifurcating the ethics commission

WV HB3307

Establishing the West Virginia-Ireland Trade Commission

WV HCR15

Requesting That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance send official correspondence to West Virginia’s federal delegations stating West Virginia veterans’ concerns and objections to the two TRICARE for Life (“TFL”) proposals

Similar Bills

WV HB2549

Creating the Independent Redistricting Commission of the Joint Committee on Government and Finance

WV HB2239

Creating the Independent Redistricting Commission of the Joint Committee on Government and Finance

WV HB2764

Creating the Independent Redistricting Commission of the Joint Committee on Government and Finance

AZ SCR1013

Legislature; sixty house districts

AZ SCR1044

Legislature; sixty house districts

AZ SCR1012

Voter identification; affidavit; procedure

AZ SCR1043

Independent redistricting commission; membership; chair

AZ HCR2027

House of representatives; designated seats