Redistricting Reform Act of 2025

Redistricting Reform Act of 2025

This bill sets forth requirements for congressional redistricting and generally prohibits mid-decade redistricting.

Specifically, the bill requires that congressional redistricting be conducted in accordance with a plan developed by (1) a state-established independent commission; or (2) if such a commission does not enact a plan, a three-judge panel from a U.S. District Court. This requirement does not apply to a state that has a plan developed and approved by an independent redistricting commission that complies with specified requirements.

The bill outlines the criteria for a redistricting plan, including that congressional districts must be drawn to (1) ensure the practical ability of a protected group to participate in the political process, nominate candidates, and elect representatives of choice; and (2) represent communities of interest and neighborhoods.

Additionally, the bill prohibits the use of a redistricting plan that was drawn with the intent (or has the effect of) materially favoring or disfavoring any political party.

Further, the bill establishes the requirements for appointing members to a state-established independent redistricting commission, including diversity requirements. The Government Accountability Office must report on the extent to which these commissions meet the diversity requirements.

The bill includes a provision to prevent states from redistricting more than once following an apportionment (i.e., mid-decade redistricting).

The bill also directs the Election Assistance Commission to make payments to states to carry out congressional redistricting.

Written by the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service. All summary versions on Congress.gov