Unlocking Fair Maps: The Keys to Independent Redistricting

Instead of allowing politicians to approve final redistricting maps, Independent Redistricting Committees (IRCs) are cross-partisan entities that facilitate fair redistricting with the final authority to draw voting districts. This report examines how IRCs are established, and highlights state- and local-level case studies that have improved the fairness of their district maps by incorporating IRCs. It outlines best practices for selecting commissioners and provides mapping criteria that ensures districts will be compact, continuous, and preserve communities that share economic, social, and cultural interests.