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Committee reports temporary redistricting exception to allow mid-decade congressional changes in extraordinary circumstances
Summary
Delegate Willard presented HJ4 (HDR4), a proposed temporary constitutional amendment allowing the General Assembly to modify congressional districts mid-decade in extraordinary situations; the committee reported the measure 8-5, and the sponsor emphasized the change would expire in 2030 and would not replace the Virginia Redistricting Commission.
Delegate Willard presented HDR4 (HJ4), a proposed constitutional amendment creating a narrow, temporary exception allowing the General Assembly to modify one or more congressional districts between regular decennial reapportionments under extraordinary circumstances (for example, if another state redraws mid-decade or a court order requires adjustment). The sponsor emphasized the amendment would expire in 2030, would not eliminate the Virginia Redistricting Commission, and would not allow changes to state legislative lines.
There was no in-room opposition testimony; the committee moved and recorded a voice vote of 8 yes and 5 no to report HJ4. The sponsor said the proposal preserves flexibility for extraordinary future redistricting decisions and that the voters would have a chance to approve the change in a referendum.
What happens next: HJ4 is reported to the full Senate. If adopted by both chambers, the constitutional amendment would be placed on the ballot for voters and would take effect only if approved by referendum.
