Redistricting Update
I don't usually send two newsletters a week (especially not two days in a row!) but important information has been released related to redistricting that I want to share.

In my March 10 newsletter, I shared information about redistricting and gerrymandering. If you missed that newsletter, you can read it HERE.
Yesterday, the US Census Bureau released their data from the 2020 census. This was the first step required for the redistricting process to begin. While we previously knew that Oregon's population had increased and that we would be gaining a sixth Congressional seat, we now know where population growth occurred, an important data point as Congressional and legislative districts are required to have equal population. For instance, after the 2010 census, each House District averaged a population of 63,851. This year's data says that each House District will now average 70,621 residents.

(My colleague, Representative Shelly Boshart Davis, is a member of the House Committee on Redistricting. She provides an excellent in-depth explanation of the redistricting process and requirements HERE.)

The House and Senate Committees on Redistricting are holding multiple public meetings around the state to hear from Oregonians about the process. You will have the opportunity to testify in person, virtually or by phone. You concerns and suggestions can greatly influence how the new maps are drawn!
The House and Senate Committees on Redistricting will be working hard over the next month to draw new maps. The legislature is scheduled to be back in Salem the week of September 20th for a special session to vote on the new lines. The legislature is required to approve a new map by September 27th. If the legislature fails to agree to a map by then, or if Governor Brown vetoes the plan, then the redistricting process will be handled by the Secretary of State for legislative lines and by a panel of retired judges for the congressional lines.

Secretary of State Shemia Fagan is forming a People's Commission to oversee the redistricting process if the legislature is unable to adopt new districts by the deadline. You can learn more about the People's Commission HERE. If you're interested in applying, the application can be found HERE and must be submitted by September 2nd.

All my best,