Trying to shed some light on reapportionment

In December, the Legislative Reapportionment Commission approved a final plan for redrawing the boundaries of Pennsylvania’s 203 state legislative districts. This process takes place every 10 years in response to shifts and changes in Pennsylvania’s population as determined by the U.S. Census. The process, called reapportionment, ensures equal representation for all residents of Pennsylvania.

As a result of reapportionment, some of you who were previously represented by another member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives may be part of my constituency. Now, to make all of this redistricting even more confusing, it is all subject to appeal, which may or may not happen. All appeals should be resolved by next month’s column, when I can give you a better indication in which legislative district you’ll reside.

I’d like to take this opportunity to let all of you – current constituents and new constituents – know where my local office is and how to contact me and my staff for assistance with any state-related service or concern.

The process of shifting and changing representation lines also happens on the national level, adjusting which congressmen represent which areas of their states. Under the new plan, Erie County is now split between two congressmen.

I believe this plan, which the state legislature voted on by way of S.B. 1249, is detrimental to our area and will deprive Erie County of full, focused Congressional representation. I returned from a Christmas family reunion to vote against S.B. 1249 when it was brought before the state House of Representatives; however, the Republican majority in the House and Senate pushed the plan forward, and we now have to play with the hand that has been dealt. This is another example of gerrymandering at its best, and will be very difficult for Erie County to have a home grown Congressperson until the next redistricting.

Again, to all of my constituents, welcome to the new 3rd Legislative District. I look forward to serving you and your family in 2012 in any way that I can. Please feel free to call my office at (814) 835-2880 if you have any questions regarding the district changes.

How to contact me

Current and prospective constituents are welcome to call or stop by my office for help with any state-related problem. The address is 2335 W. 38th St. and the phone number is (814) 835-2880.

                                                                                                         John Hornaman

                                                                                                         House of Representatives

                                                                                                         3rd Legislative District