West Cleveland News

The Ohio Ballot Board is reviewing a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to replace the existing politician-run redistricting process with a citizen-led commission, mandated to establish fair state legislative and congressional districts through a more transparent and independent system. The examination seeks to determine if the proposed amendment contains only one change.

Beginning with recent decisions, it is important to note that, in a unanimous decision, the Ohio Ballot Board officially endorsed the Citizens Not Politicians Amendment, paving the path for residents throughout Ohio to commence the signature collection process in the upcoming days. This constitutional amendment, designed to combat gerrymandering, is poised to be placed on the 2024 ballot.

Further detail about this particular amendment suggests its transformative potential. According to their website, the proposed Citizens Not Politicians Amendment entails establishing an Ohio Citizens Redistricting Commission comprised of 15 members representing Republicans, Democrats and independents; ensuring diverse representation across state's various geographic areas and demographics. Notably, it prohibits current or former politicians, political party officials and lobbyists from serving on the commission—emphasizing non-partisan representation.

The nature of redistricting processes this amendment could implement is also detailed in a recent press release. Citizens Not Politicians elaborates in the press release about the amendment saying it mandates creation of fair and impartial voting districts—constitutionally prohibiting drawing of districts that discriminate in favor of any political party or individual politician. The commission is also obligated to operate transparently and independently throughout the redistricting process.

Alongside these stipulations, concerns over the existing system were voiced by prominent figures involved in this endeavor. The press release from Citizens Not Politicians included, "The current system is deeply flawed because politicians – Democrats and Republicans – draw districts to favor their own political interests," said former Ohio Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor, who is one of the leaders of the effort. "Ohio is one of the country’s most gerrymandered states, and this proposal would end that by empowering citizens, not politicians, to draw fair districts using an open and independent process."

To understand more about the board's operations, according to their website, the Ohio Ballot Board is responsible for determining and approving the language that appears on the ballot for proposed Constitutional amendments, initiatives, and referenda, while also supervising initiatives to educate voters on proposed ballot issues. Chaired by Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, the five-member board includes Senator Theresa Gavarone, Senator Paula Hicks-Hudson, Mr. William N. Morgan, and Representative Elliot Forhan. It receives professional, technical and clerical support from the Secretary of State's office.