WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 140

PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE IV, SECTIONS 4 AND 6, OF THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION REGARDING REAPPORTIONMENT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sean Quinlan

Constitutional amendment proposes changes to Hawaii's legislative and congressional district reapportionment process, requiring voter approval to alter how election boundaries are drawn.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#censusdata #constitutionalamendment(conam) #reapportionment
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 140

Legislative bill overview

HB 140 proposes constitutional amendments to Hawaii's Article IV, Sections 4 and 6, which govern the reapportionment process—the redrawing of legislative and congressional districts. The bill would modify how these district boundaries are established, though the specific changes are not detailed in the action summary provided. This requires voter approval through a statewide referendum to take effect.

Why is this important

Reapportionment directly affects electoral representation and political power distribution across Hawaii's islands and communities. Changes to reapportionment rules can influence which candidates win elections, how much influence different regions have in state government, and whether legislative maps reflect population shifts or other demographic changes. Since this is a constitutional amendment, it represents a fundamental alteration to Hawaii's governmental structure.

Potential points of contention

  • Partisan implications: Reapportionment changes often benefit one political party over another, making the proposal potentially controversial depending on how district-drawing authority or criteria shift
  • Transparency and independence: Questions about whether amendments improve or weaken protections against gerrymandering and whether redistricting authority remains independent from political manipulation
  • Community representation: Concerns about whether changes preserve the voting power and representation of Native Hawaiians, rural areas, or other distinct communities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.