Bill > HB196

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for creating a new Texas Redistricting Commission, detailing its formation, selection process, powers, and operational guidelines. The bill outlines a complex selection method for commission members, requiring the state auditor to initiate an application process where an independent panel randomly selects three citizens to screen applicants, ensuring representation from majority party, minority party, and independent subpools. Applicants with potential conflicts of interest, such as recent political involvement or close ties to elected officials, are disqualified. The commission will have 14 total members (eight initially selected through a random drawing, with the first eight members then appointing the remaining six), with specific requirements to ensure diversity and impartiality. The commission will have broad powers, including conducting public hearings, creating redistricting maps, hiring staff, and operating with transparency, including mandatory public posting of meetings and redistricting data. Members will receive a $300 per diem and can be removed for misconduct. The bill is contingent on voter approval of a related constitutional amendment and is set to take effect in 2030, with full implementation in 2031, marking a significant reform to Texas's redistricting process by creating an independent commission to replace legislative control of district mapping.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=891&Bill=HB196