The census is a count of everyone living in the United States. Census counts happen every 10 years, and the next census will take place in 2010. In the past, low-income people were especially likely to be passed over in census counts. It is important for all New Jerseyans to make sure that the residents of their communities are correctly counted in the 2010 census.
In 2008, about 740,000 New Jerseyans (8.7 percent of the state’s population) had a household income below the federal poverty level. This count was done well before the recession was in full swing. Currently, many more people are jobless, making it more likely that the number of people in poverty has risen since 2008.
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Why is the census important?
Census information has a huge impact on New Jersey citizens. Census data is used to decide how almost $400 billion is provided each year to local, state, and tribal governments in the U.S. These funds are used for education, health care, neighborhood improvements, transportation, and other services. Census data also affects how New Jersey citizens are represented in local, state, and national government. For example, census counts are used to decide how many representatives New Jersey has in Congress.
Who is counted?
The census counts every person who lives in the 50 states, in the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories, such as Puerto Rico. Both citizens and non-citizens are counted, including undocumented immigrants. The census form does not ask about immigration status.
Is my privacy protected?
All information gathered in the census is protected and kept private. Census information is protected by the strongest privacy laws we have. The information is not made available to other government agencies, courts, law enforcement, banks, employers, landlords, or credit agencies. None of these agencies or people may get access to individuals’ census responses.
When is the census held, and do I have to participate?
Federal law requires that everyone participate in the census. Census forms with 10 short questions and a postage-paid return envelope will be mailed or delivered in March 2010. The form will be available in English and in English/Spanish. Households that do not complete the form may receive a visit from a census taker, who will ask the 10 census questions in person.
Census Bureau Web site
You may read more about the census on the Census Bureau Web site. (Note: The census form cannot be filled out online.)
This article is from the November 2009 issue of Looking Out for Your Legal Rights®. |
