Assembly approves putting temporary mid‑decade congressional maps to California ballot; lawmakers debate cost and independence of redistricting process

The California State Assembly voted to place Assembly Constitutional Amendment 8 (ACA 8) on the Nov. 4, 2025 ballot, approving a one‑time, temporary mid‑decade congressional redistricting measure aimed at letting voters decide whether to adopt new legislative maps. The roll call showed 57 ayes and 20 noes; the clerk recorded, “The measure passes. The measure is adopted.”

The measure and a related bill, Senate Bill 280, which lawmakers said would set the statutory framework and reimburse counties for the cost of a November special election, drew hours of sharply divided debate on the Assembly floor. Supporters said ACA 8 gives Californians the final say in response to mid‑decade redistricting actions in other states; opponents said the measure circumvents the independent Citizens Redistricting Commission and risks costly litigation and budgetary strain.

Assemblymember David Berman, presenting ACA 8 on behalf of Speaker Rivas, framed the measure as a choice for voters. “California voters, not elected officials, will make the final decision,” Assemblymember Berman said. He described the proposal as a response to recent actions in Texas and other states and urged members to allow Californians to “weigh in” on whether to adopt the temporary maps.

Opponents repeatedly raised constitutional and fiscal concerns.…