On April 1, 2010, the U.S. Census Bureau will count every resident in the United States. Why?
Numbers mean power. The Census count is the basis for determining the number of each state's Congressional representatives. Minnesota currently has eight representatives in the U.S. Congress; however, the state could lose one seat after 2010 because of population changes. Completing and returning the Census questionnaire will help ensure Minnesotans' interests are fully represented in Congress.
Numbers mean money. For every 100 Minnesotans who fail to answer the Census, the state will lose $1 million in federal funds over the next 10 years. The federal government gives out approximately $300 billion each year based on the Census count, while the state distributes many of its program funds based on population counts. Counties, cities and townships where residents fail to answer the Census will lose additional state dollars.
Numbers mean information. Businesses, governments, schools and non-profit agencies use Census data for planning programs, land use, businesses and services. Census data tell us who our customers are, where our students will live and what our greatest needs will be.
