Del. Eric Phillips
During the second week, Democrats pushed through legislation that would place a proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot related to congressional redistricting on April 21. If voters approve, the amendment would allow the General Assembly to temporarily redraw congressional districts for upcoming elections, before returning to Virginia’s standard redistricting process after the 2030 census.
Worst of all is how they describe the amendment: Should the Constitution of Virginia be amended to allow the General Assembly to temporarily adopt new congressional districts to restore fairness in the upcoming elections, while ensuring Virginia’s standard redistricting process resumes for all future redistricting after the 2030 census?
While the language of the proposal emphasizes “fairness,” there are reasonable questions about both its impact and the way it has been advanced. Constitutional amendments typically receive extensive public review and debate. Rather than hold multiple hearings on the bill, they gave everyone, legislators and the public alike, only 30 minutes notice. No public comment, no chance for those opposed to give their input which usually accompanies changes of this magnitude.
As I mentioned last week, the power is in your hands now. We can stop this and the other amendments, but only if voters get to the polls and vote.
Last Monday was labeled Lobby Day in Richmond and it was great to see all the activity and groups visiting delegates and senators in the General Assembly Building and Capitol. It is always great to see friends from the district taking the opportunity to share their views on issues and ask for support on certain bills that may be coming before me in the House of Delegates. If you are planning to come to Richmond, please contact our office so that we can schedule a time to see you.
