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HJR 26

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Independent Citizen Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature, Texas congressional districts, and State Board of Education districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by James Talarico

Proposes constitutional amendment creating independent citizen commission to redraw Texas legislative, congressional, and school board districts instead of legislature controlling redistricting.

Filed
#governor(i0375) #independentcitizenredistrictingcommission(v1218) #legislativeredistrictingboard(v0033) #legislature(i0520) #redistricting(i0645) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661) #secretaryofstate(v0042) #supremecourt(v0311) #stateagencies #boards&commissions--newlyproposed(i0773)
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Bill Summary · HJR 26

Legislative bill overview

HJR 26 proposes a constitutional amendment that would create an Independent Citizen Redistricting Commission (ICRC) to handle redistricting of Texas state legislative districts, U.S. congressional districts, and State Board of Education districts. Currently, the Texas Legislature draws its own district maps, a power typically exercised by the majority party. This amendment would transfer that authority to an independent commission composed of citizens.

Why is this important

Redistricting—the redrawing of electoral district boundaries—directly determines electoral competitiveness and which party benefits from the current map. An independent commission could reduce partisan gerrymandering, make elections more competitive, and potentially shift political power dynamics in Texas. The state's growing population and demographic changes make redistricting a high-stakes issue affecting representation for the next decade.

Potential points of contention

  • Partisan impact: Republicans currently control redistricting in Texas; Democrats would likely support this change while Republicans may view it as threatening their electoral advantage
  • Commission composition and bias: Questions about how citizens would be selected, whether selection procedures could themselves be manipulated, and whether "independent" commissions truly eliminate partisan influence
  • Judicial oversight: Disputes over what happens if the commission deadlocks or produces maps challenged in court, and who has final authority
  • Constitutional process: Requires voter approval through a statewide referendum, making it subject to campaigns and messaging that may obscure technical details

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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