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What is the 2020 Census and why does it matter?

2020 Census is 24th population count since 1790
Posted at 2:17 PM, Mar 09, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-01 11:15:25-04

COLORADO SPRINGS — According to United States Census Bureau leaders, we can expect invitations to respond to the 2020 Census to be delivered between March 12-20. Once you receive that invitation, you can respond online, by phone, or by mail.

The 2020 Census is designed to count every person living in the 50 states, District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories. The count is mandated by the Constitution and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency.

The census provides critical data that lawmakers, business owners, teachers, and many others use to provide daily services, products, and support for you and your community. Every year, billions of dollars in federal funding go to hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads, and other resources based on census data.

The results of the census also determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, and they are used to draw congressional and state legislative districts.

It's mandated in the Constitution that the country conduct a count of its population once every 10 years. The 2020 Census will mark the 24th time that the country has counted its population since 1790.

Participating in the census is required by law, even if you recently completed another survey from the Census Bureau. A complete and accurate count is critical for you and your community, because the results of the 2020 Census will affect community funding, congressional representation, and more.

Also, you'll want to keep in mind fraudsters and scammers will be looking to take advantage of people during this process using the census as a cover.

For News5 coverage of this issue and how to protect yourselves visit https://www.koaa.com/2020-census-leaders-warn-census-scams-are-on-the-way

For information including how to respond to the 2020 Census, what questions to expect, and why this is happening visit 2020census.gov