RALEIGH, N.C. — A three-judge panel has given Republican legislative leaders and their attorneys time to seek relief from a ruling requiring them to produce more redistricting documents for Democratic officials and allies challenging North Carolina's new district maps.
The judges said Tuesday they have issued a stay on their April 20 order compelling legislative leaders to provide the additional records within 10 days. The new date is May 11, and the judges say it should give leaders time to ask appellate courts for assistance.
The panel ruled last month there are no exceptions to a law making drafted bills and other confidential redistricting requests by lawmakers public once congressional and General Assembly district maps become law.
Lawyers defending the maps on behalf of the Legislature have argued some documents should remain confidential.