Florida picks up a seat in Congress
The new revenue estimates will be used to guide the Florida Legislature in its budget decisions beginning with a series of six pre-session legislative committee meetings that begin next month, leading into the January session. The Legislative is also preparing for the 2022 redistricting process, where it will redraw the state’s congressional and legislative maps, prior to next year’s elections.
The U.S. Census Bureau recently released new numbers on Florida’s now 21.5 million residents. Because of an increase in population since the last Census ten years ago, Florida is entitled to one additional seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, for a total of 28. That new seat is expected to be somewhere in Central Florida.
In preparation, Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls (R-Clearwater) and state Senate President Wilton Simpson (R-Trilby) recently informed their members of the rules of the road going forward in this process. Simpson issued a memorandum, noting in part that “Senators should take care to insulate themselves from interests that may intentionally or unintentionally attempt to inappropriately influence the redistricting process.” He also shared a draft constituent response for members’ use in corresponding with the public on this process. The House redistricting committee will be led by Rep. Tom Leek (R-Ormond Beach) and the Senate committee will be led by Senator Ray Rodrigues (R-Estero).
Redistricting is an important process. Where the lines are drawn can influence who gets elected, how communities are represented, and how federal funds are allocated. Of course, it can also impact the balance of power in the U.S. House between Democrats and Republicans. The Census data will also be used by Florida cities and counties to redraw their political districts.
LMA Newsletter of 8-23-21
