Overview

• Gov. Mike Kehoe said he will sign House Bill 1 at a private event on Sunday, Sept. 28, formalizing the mid-decade congressional redraw.
• The plan dismantles the current 5th District and divides Kansas City among three districts, a configuration described as favoring Republicans in seven of eight seats.
• The House and Senate approved the map in special session after a four-hour filibuster, with Republicans invoking a rare previous question motion to cut off debate.
• Democrats and civil-rights groups have filed lawsuits and are organizing a referendum drive, with opponents saying they have until Dec. 11 to gather signatures to halt implementation pending a statewide vote.
• Lawmakers also advanced an initiative-petition overhaul, with the proposed changes slated to appear on the November 2026 ballot.