Galesburg Reporter

Seeing the current system of redistricting as unfair, Republican lawmakers have introduced the People’s Independent Maps Act, which would take the responsibility of drawing maps out of the hands of politicians and into the hands of a broader spectrum of citizens. 

"Our legislation is about ensuring that politicians can no longer pick their voters. It’s about creating fair maps drawn by an independent commission and ensuring that every voter is fairly represented,” Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) wrote in a Facebook post. “Our legislation takes the language directly from a proposed Constitutional amendment that garnered wide bipartisan support just last year. Our goal is to create a process where voters feel like their voices matter, creating a stronger democracy for Illinois."

If the bill becomes law, within 30 days after it is passed the state Supreme Court must garner 16 independent citizen commissioners to make redistricting decisions. Those who are selected must represent every gender, ethnic, and racial group in the state. The members must equally represent every party affiliation, including independent voters. Legislators, state officials, and lobbyists will be ineligible. 

The Independent Redistricting Commission would hold a minimum of 10 public hearings across the state prior to adopting a plan, and at least four hearings once a district scheme has been proposed. The commission will unveil a map within 30 days of receiving related census data. This legislation will only apply to this year’s redistricting process, but a petition drafted by Sen. Jason Plummer (R-Vandalia) advocates for the permanent implementation of an independent redistricting commission.

The state’s current system allows officeholders to make up district borders influenced by their political interests. Senate Republicans have fought against Illinois’ redistricting system for several years, aiming for a system that excludes legislators from the process. Similar legislation has been presented in the past. According to a recent poll, 75% of Illinois voters agree with the proposal and are in favor of citizen-drawn maps.

"Every Illinoisan deserves to be represented in our democracy and an independent map drawn by the people for the people, NOT by the politicians for the politicians, is the best way to make their voices heard,” Tracy said. “For too long, the people of Illinois have been deprived of this right. That’s why we have filed Senate Bill 1325, the People’s Independent Maps Act.”