Along with the news on the GOP presidential candidates, you also may have heard about redistricting and its possible effect on the races in your state and national races this November. In many respects these redistricting decisions will affect you and your business more than other national discussions going on. Why?

Redistricting is the term for drawing lines to divide a state into its entitled congressional districts. These districts were determined by the results of the 2010 Census. The electoral college count for each state is calculated by adding two (2) —the number of state senators — to the number of House districts in the state. The number of state House districts is based on state population. The reapportionment plans currently being implemented — or contested — will determine the number of electors a state has for the 2012, 2016 and 2020 presidential contests. The next census takes place in 2020. See how it all adds up?

Every state handles its redistricting in a different way, either using commissions, or having courts draw lines without involving state legislatures. Additionally, several states are subject to federal oversight of elections administration as a result of The Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). Passed as part of the Civil Rights Act of 1965, this law prevents affected areas from implementing any change affecting voting without first obtaining the approval of the Department of Justice.

So far, states that have lost one seat in reapportionment include Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. New York and Ohio each lost two seats. States that have gained seats include Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, South Carolina, Utah and Washington. Florida has gained two seats, and Texas gained four.

The map below illustrates where each state is in their congressional redistricting process. At-large states, noted, only have one House representative, and thus have no redistricting issue.

Because the process is so slow and being contested in court in many states, it affects the candidate filing dates and primary election dates. In many respects, the state and national elections of 2012 are a whole new ball game. An easy way to make sure your voice and business are represented no matter what happens, is to get informed, get involved and get out the vote. Go to www.ararental.org/GovernmentAffairs/VOTE.aspx for more information.