California Attorney General Rob Bonta on Tuesday launched an independent investigation into the redistricting process of Butte County.

The investigation by the California Department of Justice, or DOJ, will seek to determine whether Butte County violated the California FAIR MAPS Act and other voting rights laws during the county's 2021 redistricting process to redraw election district boundaries.

"In a democracy, every eligible voter deserves fair and equal representation,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The allegations raised regarding the redistricting process in Butte County are serious and warrant a thorough investigation. We must ensure that the voting rights of all communities are protected and upheld. Our goal is to maintain the integrity of the redistricting process, and promote a fair and inclusive electoral system for all Californians."

Under the California Constitution and Government Code, the attorney general has broad authority to investigate any potential violations of the law, and ensure the laws of the state are uniformly and adequately enforced.

At this stage, the investigation will be conducted by California DOJ’s Racial Justice Bureau within the Civil Rights Enforcement Section.

During the course of the investigation, state attorneys will work diligently to consider all relevant information related to Butte County’s 2021 redistricting process and adopted map.

However, it is important to note that the Office of the Attorney General has made no determination at this time with regard to specific complaints or allegations related to the conduct of those involved in the county’s redistricting process. California DOJ is committed to conducting a thorough and independent investigation.