McALLEN — One of Texas' legislative panels that will play a major role in drawing new electoral districts is coming to South Texas. The Senate Select Committee on Redistricting will hold a hearing on October 21, 2010, at the University of Texas-Pan American International Trade and Technology Building, Room 1.102, beginning at 9 a.m.

Eleven state senators, including State Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, a member of the redistricting committee, will take testimony on population growth and changing demographics.

Senator Hinojosa remarked on the importance of bringing this region's opinions and perspective to the table.

"Participation in these kinds of discussions - at this high level - is not optional. We must make the issues and concerns of this region known to the rest of Texas. The insights from South Texas community leaders will provide this committee with a much needed local perspective on district maps that will define the context in which we elect our leaders for the next decade," Hinojosa said.

The committee's scope of interest includes data on birth rates, net migration, and compliance with Section 5 of the National Voting Rights Act of 1965. Stakeholders expected to participate include elected officials from all over South Texas, experts on redistricting, professors from UT-Pan Am, and a variety of non-profit organizations from the region. The committee will also welcome comments from the public.

Senator Hinojosa encourages the public to attended the hearing. This is one of a series of scheduled stops throughout the state being held in preparation for the 82nd Legislative Session.

"This is an opportunity for the public, for voters, to express their views on how congressional, legislative, and State Board of Education districts are drawn. Each one of us is affected by the decisions made by this committee. This is better than a front row seat - this is a seat at the table. We must speak to be heard," Hinojosa said.

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