S.B. No. 180 proposes significant amendments to the Texas Election Code and Government Code, particularly regarding the Texas Redistricting Commission. The bill amends Section 42.032 of the Election Code to require that county election precinct boundary changes be ordered by commissioners courts before October 1 of the redistricting year, replacing the previous reference to Section 28 of the Texas Constitution with Section 28a. It also introduces a new Subtitle C in Title 5 of the Government Code, which establishes a comprehensive framework for the commission, including definitions, member selection processes, and the commission's powers and duties. Key provisions focus on ensuring a transparent application process, prohibiting conflicts of interest, and requiring diverse representation among commission members.

Additionally, the bill mandates an open hearing process for public input, requiring the commission to hold hearings before and after drawing maps, with at least one hearing in each senate district. These hearings must be broadcast live on the commission's website, and preliminary maps will be displayed for public comment, allowing for structured feedback timelines. The bill also addresses the commission's procurement authority, administrative support from the state auditor, and the establishment of a computerized database for redistricting data. Compensation for commission members will be adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index starting in 2030, and the act is set to take effect on January 1, 2029, pending voter approval of a related constitutional amendment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 42.032, Government Code 24.945, Government Code 24.946, Government Code 24.948 (Election Code 42, Government Code 24)