Purpose of the Bill

This legislative proposal aims to amend the Minnesota Constitution to reform the redistricting process and legislative operations. It introduces an Independent Redistricting Commission and establishes several other changes to promote a fair and transparent political environment.

Main Provisions

• Independent Redistricting Commission: Establishes a commission responsible for adopting new congressional and legislative district boundaries after each federal decennial census. The commission will consist of 15 members: five from the major political parties and five who are politically unaffiliated.
• Commission Rules: Members should be Minnesota residents, not hold current or recent political office, and should meet certain ethical standards. The selection process involves both random and merit-based elements, intended to ensure diversity and fairness.
• Prohibition on Lobbying: Legislators are banned from working as lobbyists while in office and for one year after leaving office.
• Session Regulations: Amendments will affect the timing and conduct of legislative sessions, including a cap on legislative days.
• Voting Adjustments: Allows the lieutenant governor and secretary of state to cast tie-breaking votes in respective legislative houses.
• Gubernatorial Appointments: Clarifies how the Senate confirms appointments and the governor makes temporary appointments.
• Ethical and Judicial Oversight: The Minnesota Supreme Court has original jurisdiction over redistricting disputes and can order the commission to reconvene or redraw plans as necessary.

Significant Changes

• New Article in the Constitution: Adding a new article specifically dedicated to the Independent Redistricting Commission and its guidelines.
• Lobbying Restrictions: New restrictions placed on former legislators serving as lobbyists.
• Redistricting Principles: Implements detailed criteria for how districts should be drawn, emphasizing equality in representation and fair competition.
• Judicial Role: Enhances the role of the judiciary in overseeing and enforcing fair redistricting practices.

Submission to Voters

The proposed constitutional amendment will be presented to voters in the 2026 general election. Voters will decide whether to approve changes regarding redistricting, lobbying restrictions, legislative session conduct, voting rights of non-legislative members, and confirmation of gubernatorial appointments.

Relevant Terms

• Independent Redistricting Commission
• Redistricting
• Lobbying
• Gubernatorial Appointments
• Minnesota Constitution Amendments
• Legislative Sessions
• Tie-breaking Vote