OK, Let’s Count!
Not only is 2020 a Leap Year – more importantly, it’s a Census year.
Census data will determine how more than $675 billion in federal funds will be distributed to the states each year of the following decade. Oklahoma stands to lose $16,750 per resident per year for federal funding of transportation, education, health care programs and much more – including federal representation. Twenty years ago, after the 2000 Census, Oklahoma lost one of its six U.S. House seats. After the 2010 Census, the state lost out on roughly $1.8 billion in federal funding.
The first U.S. Census was held in 1790; taking part in the Census is a civic duty and a way to ensure that “I Count.” The federal government uses the results to determine representation in Congress, and the amount of funds and grants that a state receives that benefits roads, hospitals, schools and public works. Local governments use the census data for public safety and emergency preparedness plans and businesses consult the data to decide where to build factories, offices and stores, which creates jobs and fosters economic development. What’s more, real estate developers use data from the census to build new homes and revitalize old neighborhoods. Local residents evaluate the data to support community initiatives involving legislation, quality of life initiatives, and consumer advocacy efforts.
For the first time in history, the Census can be completed online. By law, all Census responses are private and cannot be shared with the FBI, CIA, ICE, IRS or any agency that isn’t the Census Bureau.
Starting March 12-20, Oklahoma households will receive official Census mail with 2020 online, phone and mail information; residents can choose to respond online, by paper or over the phone. Responses will be accepted beginning in March and April 1 is Census Day. The 2020 Census will contain nine questions, taking less than 15 minutes to complete, and can be filled out on any device with an internet connection or by paper or phone and is available in many languages.
Download Oklahoma Census 2020 resources
Download Oklahoma Census Bill Inserts & Social Media Graphics (Everyone Wins)
Download Oklahoma Census Bill Inserts & Social Media Graphics (Everyone Counts)
Download ACOG Census 2020 presentation