How to reform the way we sraw our districts

Post-Standard, The (Syracuse, NY)
May 21, 2006

I have introduced a bill in the Senate that would give the people of New York fair and logical electoral districts by creating an independent reapportionment commission to propose the boundaries for Congress, state Senate and Assembly districts following each census.

The state's current apportionment process is intentionally rigged to give the majority members an advantage. What that system means for the people of New York is that many congressional and state districts make absolutely no logical sense.
Take the 49th Senate District as just one example. Of all the talks I have with constituents visiting my office, the conversation piece that always causes the most stir is the map of the 49th Senate District that hangs on the wall. While I am honored to represent every corner of this district, there are many more corners than logic dictates.

While I am honored to represent all 49ers, I am obliged to say on their behalf that New York's current redistricting simply does not make sense.

The bill I have proposed would create an 11-member commission - with two members appointed by each majority and minority leader, and three appointed subsequently by the eight confirmed members. After each census, the commission would propose district boundaries that, after public hearings, would require a vote of the legislature without amendments.

I believe that independent reapportionment would eliminate the conflict of interest inherent in having legislative leaders draw their own districts. It would guarantee competitive elections, encourage voter participation, and make all legislators more accountable to the public. Most of all, independent redistricting would move us closer to a state government that is open, responsible and responsive.

Author: Sen. David J. Valesky D-Oneida
Section: Opinion
Page: D6