GOP, Dems to lay out Colo. redistricting plans

By The AP
Friday, April 15, 2011

DENVER — Republicans and Democrats promised to work together to put together a congressional redistricting plan. But if the first round is any indication, it could be a long process.

Both sides have drawn up “multiple” maps they plan to exchange today as part of a plan to get the process done this month. If not, they may have to come back in a special session this summer, because lawmakers are required by law to come up with a plan.

A decade ago, it took seven years and a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court to get it done.

Sen. Rollie Heath is a Democrat who co-chairs the committee. He says he’s hopeful lawmakers can agree on one map. Co-chair GOP Rep. David Balmer says that he’s also hopeful.