New Hampshire News

Independent redistricting panel bill sent to governor

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire lawmakers have agreed on a bill to create an independent commission to redraw the state’s legislative districts.

Supporters argue the current system that puts lawmakers in charge of redistricting allows for gerrymandering, in which boundaries are drawn to benefit the party in power. The House on Thursday agreed to changes made by the Senate to a bill that would create a 15-member commission. It now goes to Republican Gov. Chris Sununu, who hasn’t taken a public position on it yet. The bill passed the Senate on a voice vote. The margin in the House wasn’t enough to override a veto.

While Democrats now hold majorities in both the House and Senate, the current district designations were approved in 2012, when Republicans controlled the Legislature.

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