AUSTIN — Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst appointed Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa to the Senate Committee on Redistricting, the committee that will draw state legislative and congressional districts during the upcoming session. Senator Hinojosa adds this most recent appointment to an already impressive list of responsibilities.

Hinojosa serves as vice-chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and holds seats on the Agriculture & Rural Affairs, Criminal Justice, Jurisprudence, and Natural Resources committees. He is also a member of the Sunset Advisory Commission and the Legislative Budget Board, two legislative bodies with considerable policy making authority.

Senator Hinojosa views this new appointment as a unique responsibility that requires a great deal of objectivity.

"My objective, as a member of the Senate Committee on Redistricting, is to draw a fair map of legislative districts - a map that truly represents the common interests of our communities as well as our growing population," Hinojosa said.

Some redistricting experts predict Texas will gain three or four congressional seats during this census cycle. Texas continues to see rapid population growth, especially in certain regions like South Texas.

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 requires maps submitted by a state to show that all segments of the population be given an opportunity to participate in this process. Senator Hinojosa stressed the importance of including all Texas voices in the redistricting effort.

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