By Pat Bradley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-1002549.mp3
Montpelier, VT – Reapportionment is a constitutionally required process that occurs every ten years to account for population shifts. The plan proposed in the Vermont House calls for adding one seat in the Burlington area and eliminating a seat in Rutland County. The House gave the measure preliminary approval Wednesday on a 138-4 vote. Vermont House Speaker Democrat Shap Smith called it an unprecedented example of tri-partisan work.
Vermont House Minority Leader Don Turner says the plan isn't perfect, but it is fair.
Common Cause Vermont Executive Director Wally Roberts sees the redistricting as an incumbent protection plan.
Middlebury College Professor Emeritus of Political Science Eric Davis says the proposal meets the shift in population that has occurred in Vermont.
House Speaker Shap Smith says the goal is to have the redistricting plan on the Governor's desk by mid-April. The redistricting would be effective for the November elections.