Senate Will Continue Work to Redraw
Congressional Redistricting Lines General Assembly has Until Friday, May 13 to Adopt New Map
JEFFERSON CITY – Crafting a map that is fair and equitable to Missouri citizens when it comes to their representation in the United States Congress is a priority, said Missouri Senate leaders today in Jefferson City. This legislative session, the General Assembly is constitutionally charged to redraw Missouri’s Congressional Districts based on the most recent U.S. Census data.
According to that data, Missouri loses a congressional seat, going from nine to eight. The reason is Missouri’s population grew at a slower rate than other states in the nation.
“It is especially difficult this year, but the process is extremely important as it will likely be the basis for Missouri’s congressional district make-up for the next 30 years,” said Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer. “It is imperative we complete our Constitutional duty and adopt a map both members of the Senate and House of Representatives agree is the best in representing the interests of Missourians.”
Senators noted they had hoped to finish by a self-imposed deadline of today. Differences in the House and Senate map versions in House Bill 193 are currently before a conference committee. The five Senate members of the conference committee signed a report endorsing a compromise map drawn by the Senate. The House failed to respond.
Sen. Scott T. Rupp, R-Wentzville, is chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Redistricting and said the map should reflect the best interests of Missourians and not currently elected members of Congress.
“A member of Congress’ opinion has no more weight than that of any Missourian,” said Rupp. “We must remember we are elected to represent the people of Missouri and not their Congressmen and women.”
Rupp noted negotiations will resume next week. The Constitution provides lawmakers until the end of the legislative session (6 p.m., May 13) to adopt a new map. The House today amended Senate Bill 68 by attaching a House compromise map. That bill would next return to the Senate for consideration. If the Legislature does not complete the task, the issue would move to the courts to be decided.
