Redistricting Reform Progress Report

Ending partisan gerrymandering continues to be a high priority for the League of Women Voters of the US and Pennsylvania.   We are determined to end gerrymandering in Pennsylvania, one of the most gerrymandered states in the country.  We must stop this practice that will deny voters fair representation and cause government gridlock on important issues for the next 10 years. 

 Thanks to the many LWV members who have participated in meetings with legislators, held postcard parties, attended township and borough meetings, and helped collect petition signatures.  This is advocacy in action!  Continued pressure is needed.

 Results to date:

• Reform bills, HBs 22 and 23, have the most co-sponsors of all bills introduced this session. Of the 203 state representatives, 95 are cosponsoring HB23 and 93 cosponsor HB22.  In Bucks County, 7 out of 10 of our state reps are cosponsoring both bills.  Those who are not cosponsoring the bills are Representatives Craig Staats and Frank Farry; Meghan Schroeder is cosponsoring HB22 but not HB23.   The bills are being held up by the chairman of the House State Government Committee, until we can show that we have the votes to pass the bills.  We are close to that goal.
• Senator Collett and Senator Santarsiero are among the first cosponsors of the senate version of the bills.   Companion bills, SB 1022 and 1023, will soon be introduced in the Senate. 
• 22 of the 54 Bucks County municipalities, representing over half the county population, have passed a resolution supporting the proposed reforms to redistricting.  Total state resolutions cover 68% of the state population.  We hope the newly elected County Commissioners will pass a Bucks County resolution too.
• See our March 11 public education  event featuring Fair Districts PA citizen advocacy speake

 March 23, 2020, --Save the Date

Fair Districts PA, is holding a Rally in Harrisburg to let legislators know the time for reform is now!  Buses will be available to take anyone interested in going.  It’s is a tremendous experience to add your voice to the many enthusiastic volunteers who will be in the capitol that day. Stay tuned for more information.

 Can you do more to help the cause?  There are many ways everyone can help put an end to partisan gerrymandering.  Please visit FairDistrictsPA.com for more information and to sign the petition.