Every 10 years, information collected through the U.S. Census determines the number of U.S. representatives each state is entitled based on population. Once in receipt of that data, states are responsible for redrawing the geographic area of their congressional districts to ensure equal and fair representation, and the physical manifestation of the constitutional principle, “one person, one vote.” This process is commonly referred to as redistricting.
How Many Districts will Pennsylvania Have?
There are 435 U.S. congressional districts nationwide. Pennsylvania currently has 18 of those congressional districts, but based on 2020 Census data, we already know Pennsylvania is losing one of those districts. The next congressional map will include 17 districts.
How are Districts Drawn?
In Pennsylvania, this is done via legislation, i.e. a bill passed by both the House and the Senate, and signed by the governor. The House and Senate State Government committees will be conducting hearings across the state to take citizen input before the lines are drawn.
View the House State Government Committee hearing schedule
here.
What Happened in 2018?
Following litigation,
the current boundaries of congressional seats in Pennsylvania were released by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court in February of 2018, without any public input.