State Representative Jack Jordan (R-Bremen) reminds Hoosiers that the 2020 Census responses are critical to future federal funding in local communities, and Hoosiers should respond now if they have not already done so.
Door-to-door visits are beginning in some areas around the country to remind residents to complete their 2020 Census forms. Jordan said Indiana is currently tied for 10th in the nation for response rate, with nearly two-thirds of Hoosier census forms submitted.
“Federal funding distributed to state and local governments is determined based on your participation and completion of the census this year,” Jordan said. “There are multiple ways to do submit your form, and it only takes a few minutes. Please take this time to help ensure that our communities get funding for critical programs and resources.”
Jordan encourages residents to visit 2020Census.gov to fill out the census online. Hoosiers can also call 844-330-2020 or mail back the questionnaire sent to households.
Census takers will begin visiting nonresponding households in northern Indiana from Aug. 11 to Oct. 31 to ensure every resident is counted. Jordan said 34% of households in Marshall County and 38% of households in Fulton County still need to respond to the 2020 Census.
Census workers will wear masks and follow local public health guidelines when they visit households. All census takers complete a virtual COVID-19 training on social distancing, and other health and safety protocols before beginning their work in neighborhoods.
Jordan said everyone is required to fill out the census every 10 years by law, and the information is kept confidential. Personal information cannot be used against respondents by any government agency or court.
According to Jordan, billions of dollars in federal funding to support education, housing, health and public safety are on the line as this data impacts strategic planning decisions about statewide job training, locations of new businesses and public transportation projects.
Self-responses are due by Sept. 30, 2020.
