Fair Representation Act
12/30/2022, 5:47 PMSummary of Bill HR 3863
The Fair Representation Act, also known as Bill 117 HR 3863, is a piece of legislation introduced in the United States Congress. The purpose of this bill is to reform the way congressional elections are conducted in order to promote fair representation and increase voter choice.One of the key provisions of the Fair Representation Act is the implementation of ranked choice voting for all congressional elections. This means that instead of simply choosing one candidate, voters would rank their preferences in order of preference. This system aims to ensure that candidates are elected with the support of a majority of voters, rather than just a plurality.
Another important aspect of the Fair Representation Act is the implementation of multi-member districts for House of Representatives elections. Currently, most House districts are single-member districts, meaning that only one representative is elected from each district. Under this bill, some districts would be combined into larger multi-member districts, where multiple representatives would be elected. This is intended to ensure that a wider range of voices and perspectives are represented in Congress. Overall, the Fair Representation Act seeks to address issues of gerrymandering, polarization, and lack of representation in the US Congress. By implementing ranked choice voting and multi-member districts, the bill aims to create a more fair and inclusive electoral system that better reflects the diversity of the American electorate.
Congressional Summary of HR 3863
Fair Representation Act
This bill sets forth provisions related to ranked choice voting (a system in which voters rank candidates in order of preference) and congressional redistricting.
Specifically, the bill requires (1) that ranked choice voting be used for all elections for Senators and Members of the House of Representatives, (2) that states entitled to six or more Representatives establish districts such that three to five Representatives are elected from each district, and (3) that states entitled to fewer than six Representatives elect all Representatives on an at-large basis.
The bill also requires that congressional redistricting be conducted in accordance with a plan developed by (1) a state-established independent commission; or (2) if such a commission fails to enact a plan, a three-judge panel from a U.S. District Court.
Further, the bill directs the Election Assistance Commission to make payments to states to implement ranked choice voting and carry out congressional redistricting.
