Court backs GOP redistricting in Nassau

The state appellate court on Thursday upheld new lines approved by Nassau Republican lawmakers for the county’s 19 legislative districts.

In a 3-2 decision, an appellate panel in the 2nd Judicial Department rejected Democratic arguments that this spring’s hasty redistricting by the legislature’s Republican majority violated provisions of the county charter that call for a lengthy bipartisan reapportionment process.

Because the panel was split in its ruling, the case automatically goes to the Court of Appeals, which is expected to hear arguments August. 24. But for now, the decision means the new lines will be in effect for this November’s elections.