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Appeals Court Blocks Evidence At Redistricting Trial

TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — A Florida appeals court blocked the release of document meant to be key evidence in the state's redistricting trial.

The 1st  District Court of Appeal ruled Thursday, May 22nd that the documents obtained from a Republican consultant are privileged and must remain confidential.

The ruling overturned a decision from Judge Terry Lewis to allow the documents to be used in an ongoing trial over whether state legislators broke the law when drawing up new political maps.

Voters in 2010 passed the "Fair Districts" amendment that says districts cannot be drawn in a way to favor incumbents or members of a political party.

A coalition of groups contends legislators drew up maps for congressional seats that violate those standards. Attorneys for the Legislature call the allegations false.

On Wednesday, May 22nd Florida's Senate President Don Gaetz testified during the trial, contending state legislators followed the law when drawing up the new political maps.

TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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