Hawaii Constitution Article IV Reapportionment
Hawaii Constitution – Article IV: Reapportionment
📘 Overview:
Article IV of the Hawaii Constitution addresses reapportionment, which is the process of redrawing legislative districts to ensure fair and equal representation in the state legislature based on population changes. This article sets the legal framework for how Hawaii adjusts legislative districts after each census.
🔑 Key Provisions:
Section 1 – Legislative Apportionment
The legislative body responsible for reapportionment is the Hawaii State Legislature.
Reapportionment must occur every 10 years, following the federal census.
The goal is to create districts that are as equal in population as possible, reflecting demographic changes.
Section 2 – Criteria for Districts
Districts must be contiguous and compact.
Should respect natural boundaries and communities of interest where practicable.
Must comply with federal law, including the Voting Rights Act to prevent dilution of minority voting strength.
Section 3 – Submission and Approval
The reapportionment plan must be submitted to the Governor.
If the Governor vetoes the plan, the Legislature can override the veto by a specified majority vote.
Section 4 – Judicial Review
Provides for the Hawaii Supreme Court to review reapportionment plans to ensure compliance with constitutional requirements.
⚖️ Importance of Article IV:
Ensures equal representation in the Hawaii State Senate and House of Representatives.
Prevents gerrymandering and protects the voting power of communities.
Reflects demographic shifts to maintain fair political balance.
RELATED Blog
0 comments