Texas House Bill HJR28

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

• Filed: 7/29/25

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Independent Citizen Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature, Texas congressional districts, and State Board of Education districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

Impact

If enacted, HJR28 would significantly alter the way redistricting has been conducted in Texas. The commission would operate independently from the legislative influence, with a mandate to engage in an open and transparent process for drawing district lines. By structuring the commission to include members from the majority party, minority party, and independents, the bill seeks to mitigate partisan gerrymandering, encouraging fairness and equitable representation within the legislative bodies. The outcome of this measure could lead to a more balanced political landscape within the state.

Summary

HJR28 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish the Independent Citizen Redistricting Commission tasked with redrawing the district boundaries for the Texas Legislature, congressional districts, and State Board of Education districts following every decennial census. The bill aims to amend Article III of the Texas Constitution, introducing new sections that ensure districts remain single-member and are defined according to a set of criteria intended to uphold compliance with state and federal laws. This initiative seeks to enhance the transparency and public involvement in the redistricting process.

Contention

Despite the proposed benefits, HJR28 faces potential contention over aspects such as control and authority in the redistricting process. Legislators opposing the amendment may express concerns regarding the independence of the commission and its members, fearing that such independence could lead to challenges in alignment with legislative priorities. Moreover, there may be debates surrounding the funding necessary to support the commission and the processes for appointing its members. These discussions could influence the amendment's passage and the nature of its implementation.