MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) – The Alabama Legislature gave final approval Wednesday to new congressional, legislative and school board districts for the state to use over the next decade, but both Republicans and Democrats expect the plans to be litigated in court.
The plans are expected to maintain Republicans’ six-to-one edge in the congressional delegation and lopsided majority at the Alabama Statehouse. Democrats unsuccessfully proposed the creation of a of a swing district centered in Birmingham that would be competitive for the two political parties.
The maps now go to Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey for her signature. If approved they wil be used in the 2022 elections.
This is the first time lawmakers do not face the burden of preclearance by the Justice Department – after the U.S. Supreme Court removed the requirement – but lawmakers expect the plans will be litigated in court challenges.
House Speaker Mac McCutcheon said there are always lawsuits on redistricting plans. But he said the plans are a fair adjustment of district lines to account for population changes.