Relating to the inclusion of an incarcerated person in the population data used for redistricting according to the person's last residence before incarceration.
Action
If enacted, HB 672 would necessitate cooperation among various governmental agencies in Texas to comply with the new reporting standards. The comptroller would play a key role in compiling and disseminating these adjusted population counts. Implementation of this bill would take effect immediately after approval or begin on a set date thereafter, reflecting the urgency and importance of accurate population representation in the state's electoral processes.
Impact
The implications of HB 672 could be significant for state laws regarding redistricting and representation. By mandating that the population counts reflect the last known address of incarcerated individuals, the bill can alter the demographic makeup of districts. This may enhance representation for communities that have high incarceration rates, aligning electoral districts more closely with actual populations based on historical residence. As a result, regions with significant populations of incarcerated individuals could see substantial changes to their electoral representation, allowing for more equitable representation in governance.
Summary
House Bill 672 seeks to amend the Government Code in Texas by ensuring that incarcerated individuals are included in population data for redistricting purposes based on their last residence prior to incarceration. The bill aims to address the disparity created when individuals are counted in the population of the location where they are incarcerated, rather than their home community. By using adjusted population counts, the bill intends to provide a more accurate reflection of populations in legislative districts, thereby influencing representation in government bodies.
Contention
Discussion around HB 672 may raise concerns about the administrative burden on local and state governmental entities required to collect and report data on incarcerated individuals. Moreover, opponents could argue that including incarcerated individuals in this way skews representation, as these individuals are not participating in their home community during imprisonment. Furthermore, there could be debates regarding privacy and the ethical implications of collecting demographic data on this specific group, especially in the context of historical abuses of incarceration.
Duplicate
Relating to the inclusion of an incarcerated person in the population data used for redistricting according to the person's last residence before incarceration.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.
Relating to procedures for public involvement in redistricting of judicial districts, state legislative districts, State Board of Education districts, and congressional districts.
Relating to the reapportionment of state legislative, congressional, and judicial districts and the functions and duties of the independent redistricting commission.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.