Important Changes to the 2020 US Census
The Census is a once-per-decade process that aims to count all Americans and use that data to measure necessary federal funding for public programs as well as to inform the redistricting process for elected officials’ jurisdictions.
The Census was scheduled to conduct its counting process throughout the spring and summer before working to finalize results by the end of the year. That timeline has been thrown off by the spread of COVID-19 and ensuing social distancing measures, so here’s what you need to know about the modified US Census schedule:
The Census was scheduled to conduct its counting process throughout the spring and summer before working to finalize results by the end of the year. That timeline has been thrown off by the spread of COVID-19 and ensuing social distancing measures, so here’s what you need to know about the modified US Census schedule:
- You now have through the end of October to “self-respond” to the Census survey, which can be done via mail, online using these instructions, or by phone.
- Final counts were set to be delivered to the President by December 31 this year, but that is now pushed back to April 30, 2021. This means that redistricting counts won’t be delivered to the states until summer of 2021 (July 31 at the latest).
- The Texas Legislature was set to address redistricting during its regular legislative session next year, but the new timeline will likely require a special session later in the year.
The Census is an important undertaking that will determine the amount of political capital West Texas has for the next decade as well as ensuring we receive the proper amount back in federal funding that our businesses and individuals pay in taxes every year. With three ways to complete the Census, it’s never been easier, especially with the deadline extensions. If you haven’t already, complete the Census and encourage your friends, family, and co-workers to do the same.
