Arizona Republican lawmakers sign off on redistricting proposal

Measure seeks more parody between legislative districts

PHOENIX, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Republicans in the state Senate have given initial approval to a measure that would ask voters to limit the population differences between Arizona's 30 legislative districts.

The measure by Sen. J.D. Mesnard, (R) District 17, would require the state's redistricting commission to create districts with a maximum difference of 5,000 people. A 10% difference is considered constitutional. That means districts can vary by as many as 20,000 people.

Democrats oppose the measure. They argue the change would have a huge impact on the ability of tribal and minority communities to elect representatives of their choice.

The Senate debated the proposal Monday. It still needs a formal vote.