The Michigan Supreme Court has set a date to hear oral arguments over a proposal that would end gerrymandering in Michigan.
- Proposal to end gerrymandering in Michigan will be on November ballot
- Grouphoping to end gerrymandering in Michigan faces challenges while waiting for approval
During Friday's hearing, the state supreme court will hear 60 minutes worth of arguments on Wednesday, July 18 at 9:30 a.m.
Last month, the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled against Citizens Protecting Michigan's Constitution, the group suing the Secretary of State over a proposal from Voters Not Politicians.
The group says that Voters Not Politicians' proposal is too broad and instead says that their proposal "constitutes a general revision which can only be accomplished by the calling of a constitutional convention."
Under the Voters Not Politicians proposed constitutional amendment, an independent commission from state citizens would handle the redistricting. That board would be made up of four Democrats, four Republicans and five members with no political affiliation.
Whichever party is in majority has control of the redistricting process. In both 2000 and 2010, it has been the Republican Party. The next time districts will be drawn is in 2020.
After the 3-0 decision against Citizens Protecting Michigan's Constitution, the group appealed to the Supreme Court, which quickly denied a stay on the appeals court ruling.
On June 20, the Michigan Board of State Canvassers approved Voters Not Politicians' petition, meaning the proposal would be on the November ballot pending the Supreme Court ruling.
During the oral arguments on June 18, the defendants and plaintiffs will each have 30 minutes to present their case.
