Democrats: Punish legislators who violate Fair Districts law

Two Florida Democratic legislators want to punish lawmakers who violate the “Fair Districts” amendments passed by voters.

Sen. Darren Soto and Rep. Dwight Dudley on Tuesday filed bills that would allow a judge or the Legislature to fine legislators up to $5,000 if they break the state’s redistricting law. The “Fair Districts” amendments state that legislators cannot draw districts that benefit incumbents or a particular political party.

The Florida Legislature is holding a special session this month to draw new districts for the state Senate. The Senate this summer admitted in court filings that it violated the constitution when it drew up the districts in 2012.

It is unlikely the bills will be considered. A spokeswoman for Senate President Andy Gardiner said the bills cannot be considered without a two-thirds vote of the entire Legislature.