|
LTE by Evelyn Vinogradov, The Independent – I have previously written about the Citizen’s Redistricting Committee and its effort to study/recommend the redrawing of political districts in NM.
I’m pleased to say that the CRC has operated openly and provided plentiful opportunities for public comment (mine included), which they used to develop the maps that reflect the wishes of New Mexicans. The CRC has submitted its specific map recommendations to the public and to our legislators. The ball is now in the Roundhouse’s court. During the upcoming Special Session the Legislature should show the same respect for the people of New Mexico by following the guidance of the Citizen Redistricting Committee. MY SPECIFIC ASKS OF THE LEGISLATURE ARE AS FOLLOWS: A. Select the CRC maps that: -Comply with the Voting Rights Act -Are free of partisan gerrymandering -Protect Communities of Interest -Respect governmental boundaries including Tribal boundaries. -Avoid favoring incumbents. B. If the Legislature amends the maps sent to them by the CRC, they should provide a detailed explanation of why they amended the maps. C. During the Special Session on Redistricting all Legislative meetings should follow the letter and spirit of the Open Meetings Act. The public's business should be conducted in full public view. The actions of the public bodies should be taken openly and all deliberations be made open to the public. Public access to the proceedings is an essential element of a properly functioning democracy. We have paid attention to the redistricting process and will continue to do so. I’m sure your legislator would like to hear from constituents on this issue. Find contact information here: https://www.nmlegis.gov/Members/Find_My_Legislator Comments are closed.
|
RSS Feed
