(AUSTIN) — Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, was appointed today (Wednesday) by Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst to the Senate Select Committee on Redistricting. The 11-member committee is composed of seven Republicans and four Democrats and is charged with drawing new congressional, legislative, and State Board of Education districts.

"I am delighted that Lt. Gov. Dewhurst appointed me to serve on this important committee," Senator Zaffirini said. "It is not only a great responsibility, but also a wonderful opportunity to serve our district and our state."

Redistricting customarily occurs every 10 years, after the decennial U.S. Census is completed. Its purpose is to balance population in electoral districts.

The committee will travel throughout the state and gather information from Texans before drawing new district lines.

"Redistricting affects everything from political representation to the level of federal funding for important projects," Senator Zaffirini said. "As with every issue, my goal will be to balance the needs of Senate District 21 with those of Texas."

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