The Joint Legislative Reapportionment Committee on Tuesday kicked off the state’s redistricting process as it advanced proposed map changes.

Lawmakers will begin debate on the proposed congressional, legislative and school board district map changes beginning Thursday when they meet during Gov. Kay Ivey’s (R-AL) called special session of the state legislature.

Released by State Rep. Chris England (D-Tuscaloosa) prior to the committee’s meeting, the maps reflect the state’s population growth, particularly in Alabama’s fifth and seventh congressional districts.

Prior to the redistricting process kicking off, it was announced earlier this year by the U.S. Census Bureau that Alabama would maintain its seven allotted congressional districts. In the proposed changes approved during Tuesday’s committee meeting, the state would keep its one black-majority district to reflect the state’s minority population.

The committee passed the proposed maps by a vote of 15-6, which drew the ire of some Democrats as they believe the number of congressional districts reflecting the state’s minority demographics should be two instead of the proposed one.

To maintain compliance with the Voting Rights Act of 1965, congressional redistricting must provide for fair representation of minority voters when determining how new lines are drawn. Republican committee members insist that the newly-approved proposal adheres to these standards.

The committee’s approval of the congressional, legislative and school board district changes paved the way for lawmakers to begin debate on the redistricting process when it convenes for Thursday’s special session.

Yellowhammer News previously offered an in-depth analysis of the proposed maps and will continue to provide updates during the upcoming special session.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL