Fla. congressional, senate redistricting maps pass

TALLAHASSEE — The state Senate has passed plans to redistrict the 40-member chamber and Florida's 27 congressional seats

Both passed by identical 34-6 votes on Tuesday. All but one Republican voted for the plans, as did seven of the 12 Democrats.

Opponents argued the maps violate a pair of new state constitutional amendments.

Reapportionment Chairman Don Gaetz, though, insisted they conform to the Fair District amendments.

Voters approved the amendments in 2010. They prohibit lawmakers from intentionally drawing districts to benefit incumbents and political parties. Other provisions protect minority representation and require that lines follow political and natural boundaries when possible.

The dispute is expected to be resolved in the courts

The GOP majority pushed the maps through by waiving a rule that would have delayed the votes until Wednesday.