3 more groups endorse redistricting reform

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

Three more groups are endorsing a plan to reform Ohio’s redistricting process.

The Ohio State Bar Association, which represents Ohio lawyers and judges, the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, one of the state’s largest business organizations, and Nuns on the Bus, a Catholic social justice organization, have all endorsed the plan, Northeast Ohio Media Group reported Friday.

Backers of the plan say they are attempting to lessen the impact of partisan politics. It would create a commission made up of the governor, secretary of state, auditor and four legislative appointees who would draw the lines. Two minority-party votes would be needed to adopt a 10-year legislative map. Without them, the majority would only be able to draw a map lasting four years.

“We believe passing this important issue, which has received resounding bipartisan support, represents an accountable approach that Ohio voters can rely on to produce effective reform and fair districts,” Gordon Gough, President and CEO of the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, said in a news release.

Ohio State Bar Association President John D. Holschuh Jr., said the plan would create more transparency in the redistricting process holding districts more accountable.

Supporters of the idea say 29 groups have endorsed the plan, including the League of Women Voters of Ohio, the Ohio Republican Party and the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio.