Senator Gallivan Urges Residents to Help Ensure a Fair Redistricting Effort

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C-I, Elma) is urging residents to make their voices heard in how legislative and congressional districts are redrawn  to help ensure fair representation in state and federal government for our region and across New York.                                                            

Once every 10 years, the state is required to draw new district lines that reflect population and demographic changes reported in the most recent Census. More than 2 million New Yorkers voted in a 2014 referendum to change the process and give that responsibility to a new “Independent Redistricting Commission.” The Commission plans public hearings this summer and fall to collect input from citizens to devise the best possible plan.

“I was proud to support the creation of the Independent Redistricting Commission, which will make the process more transparent by putting power in the hands of citizens and will help ensure that no region of the state, special interest or political party gains an unfair advantage," Senator Gallivan said.  "I urge residents to learn more about the process and to get involved in helping to create fair representation for the next 10 years.”

As part of its charge to revise district lines for the State Senate, Assembly and Congress, the Independent Redistricting Commission must consider impacts on existing neighborhoods and communities, based on information it gathers from its public hearings and written testimony.

The Independent Redistricting Commission will accept submissions through its website, www.nyirc.gov, and any group or individual is entitled to submit opinions or testimony.  A virtual hearing for the Finger Lakes and Western New York regions will be held August 12 at 2 p.m.