HOUSTON — More than 50 Democratic lawmakers in the Texas House are now facing civil arrest warrants and $500-a-day fines after breaking quorum to block a Republican-backed redistricting plan. Many have left the state, as GOP leaders move to force their return.

Without a quorum, the Texas House cannot legally conduct business. On Monday, Republican lawmakers returned to the Capitol for a special legislative session, only for it to be gavelled in and quickly out when attendance came up short.

“A quorum is not present,” announced House Speaker Dustin Burrows.

The House sergeant-at-arms was then directed to locate the absent members. Civil arrest warrants were issued, giving state troopers the authority to return the lawmakers to the Capitol.

“We have directed the sergeant to send for a

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