The bill establishes the Texas Redistricting Commission, which will oversee the redistricting of congressional districts in Texas. It amends Title 5 of the Government Code by adding a new Subtitle C and Chapter 581, detailing the commission's structure, member selection process, and operational guidelines. Key provisions include definitions of terms, a prohibition against retaliation for employees attending commission meetings, and a transparent application process aimed at promoting diversity among commission members. The selection process includes removing applicants with conflicts of interest and forming applicant subpools based on party affiliation, ensuring the commission reflects the state's diversity.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes public participation and transparency in the redistricting process by requiring open hearings for public input and mandating that maps be displayed for public comment. It also stipulates that at least one legal counsel for the commission must have experience with the federal Voting Rights Act. The bill amends existing laws related to the Judicial Districts Board and the Texas Redistricting Commission, including provisions for reapportionment and the use of federal census data. If the Judicial Districts Board does not complete statewide reapportionment by a specified deadline, the Texas Redistricting Commission will assume that responsibility. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2030, pending voter approval of a related constitutional amendment.

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