Lawmakers consider redistricting alternatives

 

CHRIS TOMLINSON,Associated Press

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas lawmakers are expected to consider alternatives to the state’s political districts and hear additional testimony on the highly-partisan issue.

The Senate Redistricting Committee will meet in Austin on Wednesday, while House members hold hearings in Houston.

- FWBP Digital Partners -

Gov. Rick Perry has called the Legislature into special session to consider adopting redistricting maps drawn by federal judges. A court earlier this year declared maps drawn by lawmakers to be unconstitutional.

Minority groups that brought the lawsuit say the court-drawn maps are still too similar and completely new districts are needs.

In Austin, state senators will meet to consider proposed changes to the court-drawn maps. Democrats have proposed changes that will give minorities more power to win elections, but many Republicans oppose making any changes to the court’s maps.