The Republican-dominated Senate overwhelmingly approved a plan to redraw the districts of the chamber on a 34-6 vote.
Democrats split on the vote, with Sen. Paula Dockery of Lakeland as the sole Republican voting against it.
Republicans stressed that the maps shielded districts meant to elect voters chosen by African-Americans and Latinos.
“If you vote against it, you’re voting against protected minority districts, and how you could do that I do not know,” said Sen. Evelyn Lynn, R-Ormond Beach.
The GOP majority also pointed out a statewide listening tour and open meetings as evidence of the improved process that created the maps.
But Democrats said the plans were intended to protect incumbents, in part by “packing” minorities into certain seats. Opponents also brushed aside arguments that the process was transparent and that lawmakers got input from citizens.
“That’s what you’re supposed to do,” said Sen. Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale. “You don’t get extra credit for that.”
After the vote, the Senate moved on to discuss the proposal for Congressional districts.
