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Administrative History

Finding that a technical plan was necessary to meet the requirements of a legislative timetable for a reapportionment of the members of the State Senate, State Assembly, and Congressional districts of the state based on the upcoming 1980 federal census, the State Legislature created the Legislative Advisory Task Force on Reapportionment in 1978 (Chapter 45). The task force was directed to prepare for and develop, if necessary, a reapportionment plan for the state. Membership was composed of six members, two of whom were appointed by the Senate majority leader (one being a member of that house), two by the Assembly speaker (one being a member of that house), and one each by the minority leaders of each house.

The task force was empowered to make and sign any agreements; employ any such personnel, experts, or consultants; and perform any other acts deemed necessary to carry out its work. Additionally, the task force was authorized to complete any contract executed or conduct any business undertaken or commenced by the State Legislature pertaining to reapportionment. The task force was empowered to request and receive from any court, department, division, board, bureau, commission, or agency of the state or any political subdivision thereof such assistance and data as would enable it to carry out its powers and duties.