SJR82 Summary

• Proposes adding Section 11F to Article V of the Oklahoma Constitution to establish mandatory redistricting standards for state legislative and U.S. congressional districts.

• Requires districts have populations as nearly equal as practicable and exterior boundaries drawn with equal priority to: political neutrality (no favoritism to parties/candidates), equal opportunity (protecting minority voting rights), and contiguity.

• Mandates districts be as compact as possible utilizing existing boundaries; prohibits dividing municipalities and counties unless necessary to meet population/equal opportunity standards, and only the minimum number of times.

• Standards apply to any redistricting in process upon voter approval and supersede conflicting constitutional provisions or existing law.

• Directs Secretary of State to refer proposed amendment to voters with specified ballot language; requires President Pro Tempore to file resolution with Secretary of State and Attorney General.