Missouri officials to get census data today

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri officials are expecting to get their hands on new details about where the state's residents live.

Legislative leaders and Gov. Jay Nixon were to receive population and demographic figures from the U.S. Census Bureau today. The data is important for Missouri lawmakers to start developing new congressional districts.

Missouri officials already know the state will drop from nine to eight congressional districts based upon statewide population figures released in December by the Census Bureau. State lawmakers will develop and approve the new boundaries for Missouri just like any other legislation.

The Legislature plans hearings on redistricting in the state Capitol and across the state. House officials have said they plan hearings in March for Blue Springs, Mexico, Mo., Poplar Bluff and St. Louis.