Illinois lawmakers debate how state should draw districts

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois lawmakers are considering a pair of proposals that would change the way legislative districts are drawn every decade.

The issue is one that first-term Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner has asked lawmakers to address to ensure maps for congressional and state legislative seats are drawn fairly. It's one of the matters he wants lawmakers to tackle as a condition to resolving the 10-month budget stalemate.

Currently, the majority party draws the maps. But a Democratic proposal advanced by a House committee Monday would give the job to an eight-member panel appointed by two state Supreme Court justices representing each party.

Another measure advancing in the Senate would maintain a lot of the power for drawing maps with lawmakers, but judges would get involved if there's gridlock.