Pennsylvania citizens who want to shape the political landscape of the state, take notice.



State lawmakers are now accepting applications from residents who would like to chair the committee that draws redistricting lines for state House and Senate districts.



The five-member panel is made up of the four legislative leaders--Republican and Democratic leaders in both the state House and Senate--with the fifth member and head of the committee chosen by those four.



Any resident who does not hold a paid elected office in local, state or federal government may apply.



Redistricting is done every 10 years after the census to reflect population changes. It is often seen as a tool for the political party in power to define districts that will ensure their members get re-elected.



Lawmakers say they are focused on making the process this year fair and transparent to the public. They plan to hold public hearings to interview applicants. Leaders said they will also consider other qualified individuals who do not apply.



Interested individuals must be willing to serve, uninterrupted, for the entire time required for the commission to complete its work, typically early April through November. Although not necessarily a full-time commitment, it does require a significant investment of time, lawmakers said.



To apply, send a resume or curriculum vitae, along with a letter explaining your qualifications and reasons for being interested in serving as chair of the commission via e-mail to redistricting@palegislature.us. Or send them by mail to:



Legislative Reapportionment Commission

c/o Kathy Sullivan, Executive Director

Legislative Data Processing Center

G-27 North Office Building

Harrisburg, PA 17120



Applications must be received no later than February 18.



