House Map To DOJ And Judge

House Speaker Jim Tucker says the remapping plan for the 105 state House seats will be sent to the U.S. Justice Department and to a Washington, D.C., federal judge for approval. Louisiana must get all political boundary line changes approved under the 1965 Voting Rights Act to ensure against discrimination. Previous redistricting plans approved by the House have been rejected by the Justice Department. Sending it to a federal judge is an attempt to circumvent potential problems.  House Speaker Tucker said yesterday that the dual submission is the best way to ensure the House districts are approved before legislative elections this fall.  Black lawmakers oppose the House proposal, saying it dilutes minority voting strength.