Effort to Establish an Independent Redistricting Commission Passes NH Senate

March 28, 2019

Contact Name: Sara Persechino

Phone: (603) 271-3479

Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us

CONCORD—Today, the New Hampshire Senate voted 14-10 in favor of SB 8, the Independent Redistricting Act. SB 8 would establish an independent redistricting commission, made up of members of the public, which would draw boundaries for state and federal elections in New Hampshire.

Prime sponsor Senator Shannon Chandley (D-Amherst) released the following statement after the vote:

“The will of voters is easily distorted when partisan lines are drawn and elected officials decide which Granite Staters have the opportunity to vote for them. Our democracy needs a system in which voters choose the candidates – not the other way around. An independent redistricting commission takes this important responsibility out of the hands of those who have the most vested interest in the outcome of this process and levels the play field for all.”