S 7 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

Proposal for a legislative amendment to the Constitution establishing an independent redistricting commission

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to create an independent redistricting commission in Massachusetts that would draw state legislative and congressional district lines. The commission would be composed of members appointed by state officials and political leaders, with specific rules ensuring that district lines are not drawn to favor any political party or dilute the voting strength of racial or ethnic groups. Key provisions require districts to be contiguous and roughly equal in population while prioritizing the preservation of neighborhoods and municipal boundaries over partisan interests. The bill also sets the federal census as the basis for redistricting every ten years and adjusts the residency requirements for state representatives and senators.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 9, 2023 Last action Apr 27, 2023
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Amendments
1
Apr 27, 2023
Senate · Amendment offered
Proposal for Constitutional Amendment ought not to pass (under Joint Rule 23) and placed on file
Feb 9, 2023
House · Passed
House concurred
Feb 9, 2023
Senate · Referred to committee
Referred to the committee on Election Laws
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors