Peoria Standard

Illinois Republican lawmakers are trying to change the way redistricting maps are created through a legislative proposal. 

The Republican state legislators are backing the People's Independent Maps Act, which would essentially strip lawmakers from creating map recommendations in favor of a court-appointed citizens commission. 

Republicans said in March that the independent approach, which would dull the Democratic-led House and Senate powers, creates a system that does not benefit politicians' election or reelection efforts. 

Sen. Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) | File Photo

"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," Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Qunicy) said in a March 31 Facebook post. "[This is] about creating fair maps drawn by an independent commission and ensuring that every voter is fairly represented."

The preferred Republican plan creates at allows the state Supreme Court to appoint a 16-member independent commission. The group would reflect population demographics, such as race, and political affiliation. Sitting lawmakers, state employees and lobbyists would be barred from the commission. 

Redistricting is done every 10 years, coinciding with the census data to account for changes in populations. Typically, the majority legislative party drives the process, which in Illinois would be the Democrats for 2021. 

According to a release by state Sen. Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville), polls show that 75% of Illinois voters support having an independent process and commission to determine the legislative redistricting.