Lawsuit filed over new congressional district maps

By , Herald-Tribune
/ Thursday, February 9, 2012

TALLAHASSEE

Democrats have wasted no time challenging Florida’s proposed redistricting plans on grounds they violate new state constitutional standards.

They announced the filing of a lawsuit Thursday immediately after the Senate gave final approval to the legislative and congressional maps.

The suit filed in state court in Tallahassee challenges only the congressional map (HB 1174) that went to Gov. Rick Scott on a 32-5 vote. The Senate also passed a legislative plan 31-7. That plan (SJR 1176) will go to the Florida Supreme Court for review and Democrats plan to oppose it there.

The Democrats contend the maps violate anti-gerrymandering standards in a pair of constitutional amendments voters approved in 2010.

Three non-partisan groups that supported those amendments also announced plans to sue once Scott signs the congressional plan.

 

Last modified: February 9, 2012
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