Secretary of state opposes wording in redistricting order

Secretary of State Ross Miller says a redistricting order should not be amended to allow a sitting legislator to use the term "re-elect" or imply incumbency when running in a new voting district.

Miller's objection to a request by the legislative counsel was filed Monday with Carson City District Judge James Russell, who last week indicated a willingness to amend his order.

Longtime observers of the redistricting process say language sought by legislative lawyers was routinely included in bills processed by the Legislature. This year is different because reapportionment was kicked to the courts.

Miller also opposes allowing Nevada's three existing congressional districts to serve as signature-gathering districts for ballot initiatives until 2013. Instead, he says new congressional boundaries that created a fourth district should be used for petitions.