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Redistricting.
Initiative Constitutional Amendment.

THE QUESTION

Should the California Constitution be amended to change the process of redrawing districts for elected state and federal representatives, transferring the redistricting from the Legislature to a panel of retired judges?

THE SITUATION

After each federal census, the California Constitution requires the Legislature to adjust the districts used to elect members of the State Senate, State Assembly, Board of Equalization and the U.S. House of Representatives. The primary purpose of this process ("redistricting" or "reapportionment") is to establish districts that are "reasonably equal" in population.

THE PROPOSAL

Proposition 77 will establish a three-member panel of retired judges, selected by legislative leaders, to develop the redistricting plan. It establishes requirements regarding the drawing of districts, but the panel could not consider information related to political party affiliations and other specified matters. A redistricting plan will be developed for use at the primary and general elections immediately following the measure's approval, and then following each future federal census. The measure establishes a process for the panel, including holding public hearings. If a plan is unanimously approved, it will be used for the next primary and general elections, but then placed on the general election ballot for the voters to consider. If voters approve the plan, it will be used until after the next census. If voters reject the plan, the process will have to be repeated.

FISCAL EFFECT

The one-time costs for implementing a redistricting plan are estimated at $1.5 million for the state and $1 million for county governments. There are potential savings for future redistricting, but this would depend on decisions by the voters.

SUPPORTERS SAY

• Yes on Proposition 77 guarantees fair districts and competitive elections.
• It ensures that voters—not politicians—have the final say on voting districts.
• Proposition 77 holds politicians accountable to their constituents, not just to campaign contributors.

OPPONENTS SAY

• Proposition 77 will not result in reform, as the politicians will be the ones selecting the judges who redraw the districts. Politicians will not be any more accountable.
• If voters reject redistricting plans, the process starts over, costing taxpayers millions.
• This plan has been rushed onto a special election ballot to require a new redistricting five years earlier than normal.

For more information

PRO: Edward J. "Ted" Costa, People's Advocate, (916)482-6175, www.FairDistrictsNow.com

CON: Californians for Fair Representation-No on 77 (916) 448-7724, www.NoOnProposition77.com

For More Nonpartisan Information

See Smart Voter on Proposition 77.