MN HF1605

Creates a 17-member Redistricting Commission in years ending in one, comprising 12 public members (selected through a secretary of state process with legislative leader input) and 5 retired judges, to draw legislative and congressional district boundaries.

Establishes eligibility requirements for public commissioners, including ineligibility for those with recent political party affiliation, government employment, or campaign involvement within 10 years, and requires applicant demographic diversity.

Sets redistricting principles prioritized in order: population equality (1.5% deviation for legislative districts), contiguity, minority representation, communities of interest, political subdivision preservation, incumbent residence exclusion, compactness, and partisan symmetry without favoring any party.

Requires commission to submit initial redistricting plan by April 30 of redistricting year with approval of at least 13 members, followed by legislative consideration under restricted amendment procedures; allows up to three submissions if prior plans fail.

Applies redistricting principles to local elections in counties over 100,000 population and cities over 75,000 population through charter commissions or court-appointed redistricting commissions.