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Counties Remind Residents to Respond to U.S. Census

County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP

Sep 11, 2020

The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) reminds Pennsylvanians to fill out the U.S. Census form and make sure friends, family, and neighbors are also counted. Residents can respond to the form by mail, by phone, and for the first time, online until September 30, 2020.

Jeff Snyder, CCAP president and Clinton County commissioner noted, “The U.S. Constitution requires a census count every ten years, and documents population increases, decreases, and changes in community demographics. Those statistics are then used to decide how many seats each state gets in the U.S. House of Representatives and determines the amount of federal funding Pennsylvania receives for essential programs and services, including healthcare, food assistance, education, transportation, housing, community development and more. Counties also use this funding to support the many related services and programs they provide that form the fabric of our communities and enhance the quality of life for residents.”

“Despite being in the middle of a global pandemic, Pennsylvania remains committed to encouraging residents to respond to the 2020 Census as it determines our state’s funding for the next 10 years,” said Norman Bristol Colon, Executive Director for the Governor’s 2020 Census Complete Count Commission. “Based on our last population count, Pennsylvania receives $26.8 billion annually for our 16 largest federally-funded programs alone. At this time, I am asking Pennsylvanians to take 10 minutes out of their schedules to respond to the 2020 Census, whether by phone, mail or online. We need everyone’s help to ensure that our communities receive their fair share of federal public funding and influence.”

Pennsylvanians who have not responded to the 2020 Census should expect a Census enumerator to contact them in person or over the phone. All Census workers must carry a valid ID badge with their photo, U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and expiration date. Residents can call (800) 923-8282 to check if a visitor works for the Census.

Residents do not need to be concerned about safety and security, as Census answers can’t be used against an individual, and data security is managed by security experts operating at the highest levels. Under Title 13 of the U.S. Code, the U.S. Census Bureau cannot release any information that identifies individuals, and anyone who breaks this law faces a fine of up to $250,000 and/or up-to five years in prison.

Your voice matters in shaping Pennsylvania’s future. For more information and resources related to the 2020 U.S. Census, please visit pa.gov/census.

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