Both parties had introduced redistricting proposals over the past few weeks, but neither seemed to gain traction as a serious legislative proposal.

Jones, an influential dealmaker who was the architect of the existing House map, was not in Richmond for the Aug. 30 special session on redistricting. Since then, he’s created a map that has drawn support from at least four Democratic lawmakers, mostly from the Hampton Roads area.

“I believe that the focus in 2019 will be a more permanent solution — to create a system that fairly draws political lines,” said Del. Kelly Convirs-Fowler, D-Virginia Beach, one of the Democrats supporting Jones’ effort. “But at this time, this is something that the legislature is required to address, and Hampton Roads can lead these efforts and bring everyone to the table.”

Last week, Republicans released a redistricting proposal sponsored by Del. Rob Bell, R-Albemarle. That map will remain on the table, but Bell intends to amend his plan to correct an oversight that resulted in Del. Marcia Price, D-Newport News, being drawn into the same district as Del. Mike Mullin, D-Newport News.

Toscano and Cox