Census 2020: A Crucial Deadline Approaches

by Maria S. Salinas

2020 has been a year of significant change, or rather disruption, and as we think about the future, let’s not forget one of the most important ways to shape our future – the U.S. Census. The official count helps determine federal funding for our communities and political representation at all levels of government. The census provides a snapshot of who we are, where we live and determines the allocation of federal funding for essential services, like healthcare, education, public safety and disaster response, to name a few.

The deadline for completing the 2020 U.S. Census is Sept. 30, 2020. As of August, the response rate for Los Angeles County was hovering at 62.4 percent. That means nearly half of L.A. County residents are in danger of being left out of this crucial count. The rate of participation should be of concern to all of us. An accurate and complete count is of great importance to the L.A. region. 

For businesses, the data informs decision making on the communities they serve including where to open or expand, where to recruit employees and what products or services to offer. The data can help financial institutions determine lending opportunities, help the real estate industry understand housing needs. The benefits from understanding the demographics and future trends for our region are endless not only for businesses, but nonprofits, schools and local governments.

With the ongoing dueling economic and health crises, Federal, State and Local funding will have a huge impact on future economic growth and recovery. The census can be a powerful tool or our biggest inhibitor for economic growth and development. Not completing the census could cost L.A. billions over the next decade. 

As of Aug. 11, census representatives are visiting households to quickly and safely increase the completion rate. That doesn’t mean you should wait. Complete the census before the Sept. 30 deadline and help spread the word.

Responding to the questionnaire is easy, it may be completed online, by phone or by mail and takes 10 minutes to complete. Language support is available in 13 different languages. Visit my2020census.gov to begin.