REDISTRICTING EDITION
I’m sure that you all are aware of the recent redistricting/apportionment bill that was passed and signed into law near the end of September, but I just wanted to dedicate this week’s newsletter to talking about the changes that will occur in the 12th Senate District as a result of House Bill 319.
Before discussing anything too specific, I want to first remind my constituents of why the redistricting process was more difficult and controversial this year compared to others. Recall that after the 2010 Census, the state of Ohio went from 18 Congressional seats to 16. Even more disturbing is that according to the Census Bureau, Ohio’s population rose by 1.6 percent during the past decade to 11,536,504 people, accounting for the nation’s fourth slowest growth rate. I will elaborate on this a little later, but it’s beneficial to enter into this discussion keeping this in mind.
First, it is worth mentioning that other state legislators and I traveled all around Ohio during the summer to host meetings and discussions with people regarding the redistricting process. Furthermore, as then Chairman of the state’s Government Oversight & Reform committee, I extended the committee hearing to three consecutive days of hearing testimony both against and in support of House Bill 319. We invited anyone to submit to us any additional maps and or plans for our consideration. My sincere gratitude to everyone who took advantage of that opportunity.
Please be aware that due to population shifts, in addition to the requirement to make each Congressional district roughly 150,000 people larger, there were required changes in Congressional lines. Our area is not exempt. Only parts of Mercy County in the 12th Senate District may have changed Congressional Representatives).
There has been a lot of discussion involving the redistricting process this year. Where I recognize that some may be unhappy with the result, it is important to focus on why Ohio had to eliminate two of its Congressional districts rather than making the discussion about the current maps. We need to address the economic factors that have amounted to Ohio growing at the fourth slowest rate in America. It’s time to put politics aside and start enacting meaningful legislation designed to keep businesses and jobs in Ohio. Because that’s what the population will respond to.
If we want to restore Ohio to its once prominent role, we have to not only keep workers in Ohio, but we need to create jobs for the future. That’s why I stand behind the Governor and his JobsOhio initiative. That is why I favor less government regulation on businesses. That is why I will never support any unnecessary tax against those who have the power to create jobs.
I’m happy to continue to serve the 12th Senate District and I look forward to working with the fine people of Logan County. Thank you for your time. Should you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding state issues, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Senator Keith Faber
President Pro Tempore
12th Senate District
