Members of the Georgia House and Senate have convened in Atlanta for a special session to tackle redistricting the state to align with the 2020 census report.
The report shows Georgia grew by almost one-million people, bringing the population to just over 10,617,000.
In advance of the special session, Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan and Sen. John F. Kennedy (R-GA18), Chairman of the Senate Redistricting and Reapportionment Committee, and members of the Senate Majority Caucus released a proposed draft of Georgia’s Senate Districts, showing how Senate districts could be re-drawn.
“As we continue to prioritize transparency and fairness throughout the redistricting process, listening to concerns expressed by members and the communities they represent will remain a top priority,” Duncan said.
MORE: Kemp Calls Early November Special Legislative Session for Redistricting
Kennedy added, “The map released today not only reflects our commitment to a dignified process, but also represents countless hours working with members from both political parties to ensure the proposed map takes into account the individual characteristics of each district.”
In the Georgia House, Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge), Legislative & Congressional Reapportionment Committee Chairman Bonnie Rich (R-Suwanee) and the House Leadership Team released a draft map of the new state House districts to be considered during the special session.
“We have a proven track record of integrity when it comes to redistricting,” said Ralston. “In 2011, our House Majority drew maps which were the first in Georgia history to be approved without changes by Obama-Holder Justice Department under Section 5 preclearance requirements. We are confident we will once again adopt a map which fulfills our Constitutional duty and strengthens our democracy.”
Both draft maps can be viewed online under “Proposed Plans”.
The public can continue to submit comments and proposals here.
The House and Senate Reapportionment Committees held 11 joint public meetings, some virtual, some in cities around Georgia, Including Augusta.
Dana Lynn McIntyre is a Staff Reporter with The Augusta Press. You can reach her at dana@theaugustapress.com
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