Oklahoma Senate Bill SJR8

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Constitutional amendment; modifying apportionment of state senate districts; requiring certain considerations.

Impact

If passed, this amendment to the Oklahoma Constitution would significantly alter the current structure of representation within the state’s legislative body. By delineating districts based largely on population, the amendment aims to ensure that larger populations have equitable representation in the Senate. This could impact the political landscape, particularly for rural areas that may experience a dilution of their representation compared to urban centers.

Summary

SJR8 seeks to amend the Oklahoma Constitution by modifying the way state senate districts are apportioned. The proposal involves creating forty-eight senatorial districts, with the nineteen most populous counties being designated as individual districts, each represented by one senator. The remaining fifty-eight less populous counties will be grouped into twenty-nine two-county districts, also represented by one senator each. The resolution maintains the four-year term for senators, ensuring continuity for those currently serving when the amendment is adopted.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SJR8, primarily related to the balance of representation between urban and rural voters. Critics may argue that combining less populous counties into two-county districts could lead to underrepresentation of rural interests, as larger urban populations might dominate election outcomes. Supporters of the bill, however, posit that adjusting the apportionment in such a manner could provide a more balanced approach to governance, adhering to principles of population density and fair representation.