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Ohio’s Redistricting Process Is Poised For Vote


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A bipartisan agreement to overhaul the way Ohio draws its legislative districts is poised for a vote in the state Senate after late-night negotiations carried into Friday morning.

The state alters district lines to reflect population shifts identified by the U.S. Census every 10 years. The process is called redistricting. Both political parties have acknowledged flaws in Ohio's system, which is frequently criticized as partisan.

The measure would create a seven-member panel to redraw lines. Two minority-party votes would be needed to adopt the boundaries for the 10-year period. Lacking those votes, the majority would draw them. They would initially be good for four years, and then the panel would try again.

Backers say it would create more competitive districts.

House approval is needed for the revised proposal.