Texas House Bill HJR59

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

Impact

Should HJR59 pass, it will significantly impact how redistricting is conducted in Texas. The Texas Redistricting Commission will comprise seven appointed members with strict eligibility requirements to prevent conflicts of interest. This includes restrictions on political affiliations and prior political office holders, promoting a more independent commission. The commission will also be required to follow specific criteria for drawing district boundaries, emphasizing compliance with federal laws such as the Voting Rights Act and maintaining the integrity of communities of interest.

Summary

HJR59 proposes a constitutional amendment aimed at establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission, tasked with creating and modifying redistricting plans for both the Texas Legislature and congressional districts. This bill represents a shift in redistricting authority from the current legislative procedures to a dedicated commission, aiming at enhancing impartiality and reducing political gerrymandering. The commission model is intended to engage experts, including retired federal judges, to ensure the process is fair and transparent.

Contention

While the establishment of a Redistricting Commission aims to bring consistency and fairness to the process, there are potential points of contention. Critics may argue that transferring this power from the legislature to a newly formed commission could lead to new types of political maneuvering and challenges in accountability. The definition of 'community of interest' and criteria for drawing district boundaries might also be subject to significant debate, leading to concerns about representation and equity among various demographic groups.