Michael P. Norton
State House News Service
The U.S. Census Bureau now plans to deliver redistricting data to states by Sept. 30, instead of by March 31, throwing a major wrench into efforts by state legislatures to redraw Congressional and legislative districts this year as is required every 10 years.
The U.S. Census Bureau announced its decision Friday, citing delays related to COVID-19 and prioritization of the delivery of state population counts for apportionment to the president by April 30. Apportionment is the process of dividing the 435 seats in the U.S. House among the 50 states. Redrawing the boundaries of districts to reflect population shifts, is a job the Massachusetts Legislature faces pressure to complete in time for the 2022 elections.