The Nonpartisan Redistricting Process Bill passed its final reading today in the N.C. House of Representatives. The bill, although not perfect by any means, would improve the current political gerrymandering system. If the Senate confirms the bill, an independent, non-partisan board would determine the state’s jurisdiction lines. This independent board would send its proposal to the House and Senate for approval; if the proposal passes three readings it becomes the jurisdiction lines for the next 10 years. However, if the proposed map fails, the commission must develop a new proposal. The commission will refer a revised map to the House and Senate. This process would continue until the new lines are finally adopted.

Although this independent commission could still waver from political pressures, the bill is a good place to start. Competitiveness should drive elections and voters should be able to make informed decisions. No one party needs to have all the power in redistricting; after all, unfairness begets future unfairness. For more information regarding redistricting check out John Hood’s article about reform.