Voters back redistricting changes in early returns
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Voters in early returns are backing two amendments that would set new rules for how legislative and congressional districts in Florida are redrawn every 10 years.
With almost 80 percent of precincts reporting, voters favored Amendment 5, dealing with legislative districts, with almost 62 percent of the vote. Amendment 6, which addresses U.S. congressional districts, was earning more than 62 percent of the vote. Like all constitutional amendments, they need 60 percent of the vote to pass.
Unlike most other states, Florida currently has few rules for redistricting.
The new amendments would require that both legislative and congressional districts be compact, equal in population and make use of existing city, county and geographical boundaries. The amendments also would prohibit drawing districts to favor or disfavor an incumbent or political party.