The next census of the United States will be taken in 2020. A full and accurate count is critical for Alabama’s communities because many of the federal programs distribute money to the state based on statistics. An under count or drop in census numbers for Alabama will mean less funding allocated to the state and - as an extension – to your community.
The census is mandated by the U.S. Constitution. The purpose is to conduct a census of population and housing and disseminate results to the President, the states, and the American people. The primary uses for decennial census data are:
All responses to Census Bureau surveys and censuses are confidential and protected under Title 13 of the U.S. Code. Under this law, the Census Bureau is required to keep respondent information confidential. Census Bureau will never share a respondent’s personal information with immigration enforcement agencies; law enforcement agencies; or allow it to be used to determine their eligibility for government benefits. The results from any census or survey are reported in statistical format only.
ADECA serves as liaison between the State of Alabama and the Census Bureau and is already working to encourage maximum participation in the 2020 census. ADECA is also the certifying official for annexations and boundary changes and works with local officials to ensure that Census boundary records are accurate and up-to-date.