Bill > HR10089

This bill, titled the "Representation Act," aims to prevent states from splitting up "communities of interest" when drawing congressional districts. A community of interest is defined as a geographically connected group of people who share common traits like culture, history, economic ties, social characteristics, language, education, religion, or civic identity. Before redrawing districts, states must identify and document these communities, and they must also accept and consider any proposed communities submitted by residents. The bill prohibits dividing a documented community of interest into multiple districts unless it's absolutely necessary to ensure districts have roughly equal populations, to comply with the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (a federal law protecting minority voting rights), or to keep another community of interest intact. If a community is divided, the state must publicly explain why, detailing the process for considering proposed communities and justifying any prioritization of one community over another. Individuals affected by a divided community or by the failure to consider a proposed community can sue the state in federal court to enforce these provisions. The Election Assistance Commission will also provide states with resources for mapping these communities.