Lawmakers Pass Redistricting Maps

North Carolina lawmakers have finalized new redistricting maps for the state senate and for 13 congressional districts. Jessica Jones reports the new boundaries are expected to benefit Republicans.

The GOP-drawn maps for the state House, state Senate and the U.S. Congress are now law. It's estimated the newly drawn Congressional map could get several more Republicans elected to Congress.

Many Democrats are opposed to the newly drawn boundaries, saying they crowd African-American voters into special districts so their vote won't have as much influence.

The maps will now have to be approved by either a federal court or the U.S. Justice Department in accordance with the Voting Rights Act. Republicans say the maps are fair and legal and that they'll hold up under scrutiny. But Democrats say they're doubtful the maps will be approved in time for the 2012 elections, and some state groups are already planning lawsuits to block the newly drawn lines. The official approval process is expected to begin in about a month.