Press Release
Lt. Gov. Bolling and State Chamber of Commerce Endorse Bipartisan Redistricting Reform
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Richmond - Today the Virginia Redistricting Coalition announced the endorsements of Governor Mark Warner, Senator George Allen, Lt. Governor Bill Bolling, and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce for bipartisan redistricting reform, embodied in SB38. Governor Tim Kaine participated in the announcement as well, having previously endorsed redistricting reform in his State of Commonwealth address.
Bipartisan redistricting reform will increase competition, decrease partisan polarization, and make government more accountable to the voters. SB38 starts the General Assembly with a fair district map created by a bipartisan commission and requires independent review and recommendations on any modifications the Assembly attempts to make to the maps.
SB38 (substitute Deeds, Cuccinelli, Howell, and Stolle) passed the Senate Privileges & Elections today without opposition. The substitute is a bipartisan compromise from subcommittee.
"This is an ideal time to implement bipartisan redistricting in Virginia," said Lieutenant Governor Bolling. "With the two chambers of the General Assembly currently controlled by different political parties and the outcome of the next gubernatorial election yet to be determined, neither political party has a clear advantage as we approach our next redistricting in 2010. By implementing bipartisan redistricting now, we can make certain that the focus of our next redistricting effort is placed on the things that matter most, and minimize the political risks for both Republicans and Democrats alike."
"Leaders from both sides of the aisle know that it's time to end partisan gerrymandering. SB38 is strong, realistic, and protects the voting rights. We hope a spirit of cooperation and bipartisanship will continue as this bill advances to the House," said David Solimini, Executive Director of the Virginia Redistricting Coalition.
The Virginia Redistricting Coalition is a group of grassroots organizations, business, community and political leaders who support bipartisan redistricting reform and oppose partisan gerrymandering. Online at www.FixTheLines.com.
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For additional information contact Randy Marcus at 804-814-7117 (cell) or randy.marcus@ltgov.virginia.gov.
