RI lawmakers to review redistricting proposal
PROVIDENCE, R.I.—State lawmakers are set to begin reviewing proposed changes to Rhode Island's two Congressional voting districts next month.
The state Commission on Reapportionment voted Monday night to endorse a plan following weeks of meetings on various proposals.
The latest version shifts some Republican-heavy neighborhoods out of U.S. Rep. David Cicilline's district into the district now represented by Rep. Jim Langevin. Cicilline's district would also absorb additional voters in Providence. Both men are Democrats.
The plan's supporters say it would give minority voters a louder voice by increasing their numbers in Cicilline's district. But Republican critics say several proposals seem crafted to help Cicilline's re-election efforts.
Final approval of any changes will be up to the General Assembly. Officials want the new political districts in place before the November 2012 elections.
