Rep. Boyd statement on passage of congressional redistricting reform bill

State Rep. Janine Boyd (D-Cleveland Heights) issued the following statement on the congressional redistricting proposal, Senate Joint Resolution 5, voted out of the General Assembly today:

“When I walked into the Statehouse this morning, I was inclined to vote no on SJR 5. I had concerns over provisions that allow for the splitting of counties as well as the legislative process behind this bill, which saw a work group largely shielded from the public view negotiate a plan to beat a citizen-led initiative to the ballot. Having a more open process, one allowing for more hearings and more time, would have undoubtedly led to a better proposal.

“House District 9, the district I am privileged to serve, is home to residents of all ages and backgrounds. Thousands of voters in my district have demanded change, both at the polls and in the ballot initiative process. But, after talking with constituents and redistricting advocates, many of whom stressed the safeguards put in place during bipartisan negotiations earlier this week, I was convinced to vote in favor of SJR 5. While I still have some reservations about this plan, I am hopeful that it is a step in the right direction to give the power back to voters and allow them to have a real voice over their representation in Washington.”