Alabama takes step toward a new congressional map while awaiting court action

Republican lawmakers passed a bill that would set up special primary elections if they are allowed to implement new maps after the U.S. Supreme Court’s redistricting ruling.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed legislation Friday that would set up new primary elections if the courts allow Republicans to change their congressional and state Senate maps ahead of the November midterms.

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Alabama’s primaries are set to take place under its current maps on May 19. But the legislation the Republican-controlled Legislature approved Friday gives Ivey the ability to schedule separate special primary elections for affected districts if redrawn maps are put into place.

“Alabama knows our state, our people and our districts best,” Ive said in a statement.