Commission hopes to wrap up election redistricting maps by Feb. 29

The state Reapportionment Commission expects to finalize new political boundaries for state House and Senate offices by the end of the month.

The latest proposed maps — which could change after public comments are received — gives Hawaii island a fourth Senate seat places at least six pairs of incumbents in the same districts, setting up head-to-head matchups of sitting lawmakers.

New maps were presented and accepted today by the state Reapportionment Commission with plans to solicit public comment at meetings next week. Maps had to be hastily redrawn after the state Supreme Court on Jan. 4 tossed out the district plans approved last year.

Once comments are taken, any appropriate changes would be made and the final proposal unveiled Feb. 27, with plans to formally adopt it Feb. 29.