Virginia Independent Redistricting Commission Amendment (2016)
| Not on Ballot |
|---|
 |
| This measure was not put on an election ballot |
A Virginia Independent Redistricting Commission Amendment was not put on the November 8, 2016, ballot in Virginia as a legislatively referred constitutional amendment. The measure, upon voter approval, would have established a nonpartisan independent redistricting commission to draw state legislative and congressional districts. The amendment would have first affected redistricting following the 2020 U.S. Census.[1]
Support
One Virginia 2021: Virginians for Fair Redistricting supported the measure. The organization was founded by Leigh B. Middleditch, Jr.[1] They initiated a twofold campaign: (1) to convince the public that redistricting reform is needed in Virginia and (2) to lobby the state legislature to pass a constitutional amendment.[2]
Supporters
- Sen. Bryce E. Reeves (R-17)[2]
- Former Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling (R)[1]
- Former Rep. Shannon Valentine (D-23)
- James E. Ukrop, businessman
Arguments
- Former Rep. Shannon Valentine (D-23) said, "When districts are drawn for political purposes, the result is often gridlock with very little accountability and a notably few number of elections whose outcome is even in doubt. Voters begin to feel as though they are left out of the process."[3]
Path to the ballot
- See also: Amending the Virginia Constitution
A majority vote was required in two successive sessions of the Virginia General Assembly for the amendment to be placed on the ballot.
Similar measures
See also
Footnotes
 |
State of Virginia Richmond (capital) |
|---|---|
| Elections |
What's on my ballot? | Elections in 2025 | How to vote | How to run for office | Ballot measures |
| Government |
Who represents me? | U.S. President | U.S. Congress | Federal courts | State executives | State legislature | State and local courts | Counties | Cities | School districts | Public policy |
