Problem Solvers MAPS Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 15, 2026
Bottom line
The Problem Solvers MAPS Act aims to standardize and improve the fairness of congressional redistricting processes across all states by mandating specific, non-partisan criteria for district drawing.
What it actually does
This bill establishes four primary federal requirements for congressional districts in each state: they must be contiguous, as compact as practicable, not drawn to favor or disfavor any political party or candidate, and achieve population equality. It also mandates that states consider preserving pre-existing political subdivisions like counties and cities during redistricting.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the bill would significantly reduce partisan gerrymandering, promote fairer representation, and increase voter confidence in the electoral process by ensuring districts are drawn based on neutral criteria rather than political advantage. They emphasize the importance of contiguous and compact districts that respect existing community boundaries to foster more competitive and representative elections.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that this bill represents an undue federal overreach into a power traditionally reserved for states, potentially infringing on states' rights to manage their own electoral processes. They could also contend that defining subjective terms like 'compact' or 'favoring a party' is inherently difficult and could lead to extensive, costly litigation, or that it might inadvertently disadvantage certain communities or political groups.
The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing ample time for public consideration and understanding before any potential legislative action.
Section 2(a)(1)(A)
Contiguity of Districts
This provision mandates that all congressional districts within a state must consist of a single, unbroken piece of land. The only exception is for areas naturally separated by a body of water, which can still be included. This requirement prevents districts from being drawn with disconnected segments, ensuring geographical coherence.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this is a fundamental principle of fair districting, preventing 'shotgun' or 'octopus' districts that are intentionally fragmented to dilute votes or consolidate political power. It ensures a logical and understandable geographic representation.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against basic contiguity requirements, as it is a widely accepted and fundamental standard for electoral districts.
Tradeoffs
Balancing strict contiguity with other criteria like population equality or preserving communities, especially in states with islands or significant water bodies that naturally separate populations.
Section 2(a)(1)(B)
Compactness of Districts
This provision requires that each congressional district be as compact in form as practicable. This generally means districts should not be excessively sprawling or irregularly shaped, aiming for more geometric shapes like squares or circles where possible, to prevent oddly shaped districts designed for political advantage.
Section 2(a)(1)(C)
Prohibition Against Partisan Gerrymandering
This crucial provision explicitly prohibits drawing congressional districts for the purpose of favoring or disfavoring competition, an incumbent, a particular candidate, or a specific political party. This aims to eliminate the practice of gerrymandering based on political outcomes, ensuring maps are drawn neutrally.
Section 2(a)(1)(D)
Population Equality Requirement
This provision mandates that congressional districts must achieve population equality as nearly as practicable, consistent with the U.S. Constitution. This reinforces the 'one person, one vote' principle, ensuring each district has roughly the same number of residents, thereby giving each vote equal weight.
Section 2(a)(2)
Consideration of Existing Political Subdivisions
This provision requires states, when establishing congressional districts, to consider the preservation of pre-existing political subdivisions, including counties, cities, tribal land boundaries, and towns. This aims to keep communities intact within single districts where feasible, maintaining local political cohesion.