Alan Greenblatt is a GOVERNING correspondent.
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Way Too Many
Should California increase its number of state legislators? Steve Wiegand, of the Sacramento Bee, has an amusing column about this idea.
Because of California's population, its 40 state senators represent more people than members of Congress. If there were more legislators, each would have fewer constituents and perhaps less pressure to raise as much money.
But Wiegand is skeptical about the idea, noting that most states that change the size of their legislatures actually reduce the size.
As for keeping the ratio of constituents per legislator low, Wiegand notes, "I'm told this works very well in New Hampshire, which has a legislature of 424, and a total population of about 425. They take turns not being a legislator."
Written and compiled by staff writers and editors, GOVERNING View is an on-the-ground, and sometimes behind-the-scenes, look at the topics we're covering in print and online. From notes on what's up in statehouses, county courthouses and city halls, to encounters with people, places and things, GOVERNING View is a window into the side of state and local government you don't always see.
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