Barrow Introduces Redistricting Legislation

Press Release

U.S. Congressman John Barrow (GA-12) officially introduced legislation to reform the redistricting process in the United States. The John Tanner Fairness and Independence in Redistricting Act, H.R. 223, requires that any redistricting plan be developed by an independent redistricting commission.

"All over the country, the votes of moderates and independents are being suppressed by the partisans who are in control of the redistricting process in their states," said Congressman Barrow. "The result is that the partisan extremes are over-represented in Congress and the moderate majority is under-represented. This is a bipartisan problem, and it requires a nonpartisan solution."

Among other requirements, the John Tanner Fairness and Independence in Redistricting Act:

* Prohibits a state that has been redistricted after an apportionment from being redistricted again until after the next apportionment, unless ordered by a court to comply with the U.S. Constitution or enforce the Voting Rights Act of 1965;

* Establishes a state independent redistricting commission; and

* Develops a redistricting plan, including soliciting and considering public comments, and submits such plan to the state legislature.

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