Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1776

Introduced
4/17/24  

Caption

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.

Impact

The bill's provisions mandate that the IRC conduct public hearings in various geographic regions, allowing for community input and engagement. All proposed redistricting plans must be made publicly accessible, contributing to a higher level of transparency in the redistricting process. This shift is expected to positively influence state laws by emphasizing fairness, protecting minority representation, and diminishing gerrymandering, encouraging a political climate where district boundaries reflect community interests rather than partisan agendas.

Summary

House Bill 1776 proposes significant amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution, focusing on the establishment of an Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) to oversee redistricting processes following the decennial census. This measure aims to replace the existing Legislative Reapportionment Commission with an independent body, thereby enhancing accountability and diminishing partisan influence in the drawing of district lines. The proposed IRC would comprise individuals from the two major political parties and unaffiliated voters, ensuring balanced representation.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment towards HB 1776 appears to be supportive among progressive factions who advocate for improved electoral representation and fairness in governance. Proponents argue that an independent commission mitigates the risks of partisan bias, while opponents express concern about reducing legislative control over redistricting. This discussion reflects a broader national dialogue on electoral reforms and the necessity of independent oversight in the democratic process.

Contention

Notable points of contention include fears that structure of the IRC may still allow for influence from current political parties, despite its independent nature. Critics argue that the effectiveness of the IRC could be compromised if not adequately insulated from political pressures. The legislation will likely lead to vigorous debates regarding the operational boundaries of the IRC and its long-term effectiveness in achieving fair representation across the state's districts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA 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.

PA 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.

PA SB1076

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

PA HB1473

Providing for legislative and congressional redistricting and for proceedings of the Legislative Reapportionment Commission.

PA SJR43

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission and providing redistricting procedures for state legislative, state judicial, and congressional districts.

PA SJR56

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission and providing redistricting procedures for state legislative, state judicial, and congressional districts.

PA SF3513

Constitutional Amendment establishing an Independent Redistricting Commission

PA SF4785

Constitutional Amendment Proposal to establish an Independent Redistricting Commission

PA SJR8

Proposing an amendment to the Oregon Constitution relating to an independent redistricting commission.

PA SJR16

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

Similar Bills

PA SB1076

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

PA 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.

PA 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.

PA HB1473

Providing for legislative and congressional redistricting and for proceedings of the Legislative Reapportionment Commission.

PA HB1215

Providing for the establishment, conduct and composition of the Independent Congressional Redistricting Commission, for adoption of congressional district maps, for prioritized redistricting criteria, for failure to adopt final congressional district map and for judicial review.

PA HB2571

Providing for the establishment, conduct and composition of the Independent Congressional Redistricting Commission, for adoption of congressional district maps, for prioritized redistricting criteria, for failure to adopt final congressional district map and for judicial review.

PA SB874

In election districts and polling places, providing for residence of incarcerated individuals.

PA HR55

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the feasibility of computational redistricting in Pennsylvania.