Citizens for Change

Before the Voters FIRST Act, every 10 years after the federal census California lawmakers were charged with redistricting—the process of creating the political geographic boundaries from which representatives of the state Senate, Assembly and Board of Equalization are elected. California voters changed that when they authorized the creation of the Commission in the November 2008 General Election. Now the people - people like you - can apply to serve on the independent Commission that will draw district boundaries for the state Senate, Assembly, and Board of Equalization.

Why Apply?

You Made it Happen - You voted for this, take advantage of the opportunity to be part of California history.
Unprecedented Opportunity - For the first time in our state’s history, ordinary citizens will hold the power to draw the district lines for State Senate, Assembly, and Board of Equalization elections.
Momentous Chance - You have the chance to serve on the very first redistricting commission truly made up of citizens from across the state.
Fair Representation - You can help ensure fair representation for all Californians and make sure your community voice is heard.

Apply Now!

You can apply now to serve on this exciting new Citizens Redistricting Commission (Commission)! The application process takes place in several phases, but you must submit an initial application online by February 16, 2010 to participate in the remaining phases. The application and selection process is outlined in the flowchart. After the initial application phase, public comments will be accepted throughout the remainder of the process! If you want to read more about the process in another language, we have information available in six other languages: Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.

To apply to be a commissioner, use the icon on the right to go to the secure application site.

You can also see examples of the pages of the application. However, these are NOT the official application—they are only examples.

Those who pass the initial application screen will be notified and asked to complete a supplemental application. You are eligible to serve on the Commission (and will continue through the next phase) if you meet the following criteria:

Are a registered voter and have voted in at least two of the last three general elections.
Have had consistent voter affiliation for five years.
Meet other provisions in the initiative outlined here.

Questions?

Have questions about the process and serving on the Commission? Call our toll free number 1-866-356-5217. Here are some things you might want to know:

Commissioners will be paid $300 per diem each day that they conduct Commission business.
The Commission will be able to hire staff and/or experts to assist them.
According to the Act, employers cannot discharge, threaten to discharge, intimidate, coerce, or retaliate against any employee because of the employee's attendance at any meeting of the commission.

Don't have access to the internet or your computer is in the shop?

California public libraries are a great resource and are committed to make it easy for you to apply by having computers and internet service available for anyone who needs it. Need help in finding your local library? Use this great resource.

Need Reasonable Accommodations?

If you need a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the Commission application and selection process, please contact us, toll free, at 1-866-356-5217 or send a letter or e-mail specifying the accommodation you are requesting to votersfirstact@auditor.ca.gov or use the address below.