REPORT: REDISTRICTING ON FAST TRACK
Friday, June 24th, 2011 -- 11:31 AM
It appears Republican state legislators will take the unprecedented step of redistricting state Assembly and Senate seats before local municipalities approve their lines.Redistricting happens once every ten years, in conjunction with the U.S. Census.
The [i]Milwaukee Journal Sentinel[/i] reports today that Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald confirmed leaders have finished their proposed maps and are circulating them now.
Redrawing the lines can help a party shore up vulnerable seats and tip toss-up districts.
The report quotes several Republicans who expect they?ll vote on the proposed maps before Senate recalls next month. Democrats would need to net three seats to gain control of the chamber.
The process is costing a lot. Legislative leaders are paying at least $300,000 in taxpayer money just to retain legal counsel. The actual cost to oversee the process will likely be much higher.
Rep. Scott Suder has not returned phone calls seeking comment.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.