The 2020 Census: Be Counted!

First, the Census has been a cornerstone of our democracy since the first national count in 1790. The count is conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency. The 2020 Census will count the population in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone, or by mail. This will mark the first time that you will be able to respond to the census online. The entirety of the process takes less than 10 minutes.

One question students have is about where to be counted; in Frostburg or at home?

The U.S. Census Bureau is clear on this: everyone should be counted where they live on April 1, 2020. That means that all students living in Frostburg, on campus or off, should be counted at their residence here. While this may be confusing, especially since residency for tuition and taxes are managed differently, the guidelines are simple. Where you lay your head on April 1 is where you should be counted.

Why is the Census important?

Simply put, the Census determines nearly everything for the next decade. It helps the federal government allocate funding for roads, ambulance and fire services, and public schools. It is estimated that each person represents over $1,800 in federal spending a year. In other words, not being counted can cost local communities over $18,000 per person between the 2020 and 2030 Censuses.

The Census is also the method by which House of Representative seats are apportioned. Therefore, states that have gained in population will receive more seats, and thereby more representation. This trickles down, too, and the Census count directly impacts redistricting efforts within states.

More importantly for students, Census data is what helps companies like Starbucks, Chipotle, and Target determine where to place new stores. If they don’t think there is a population demand, they won’t build. Thus, it’s essential to be counted in order to bring amenities to Frostburg.

Is there a citizenship question this year? Does the Census want to know about how much money I make?

No and no. While the Trump Administration did request that a citizenship question be added to this year’s Census, the proposal was shot down in federal court. Moreover, the Census doesn’t ask questions about finances, whatsoever.

Students will begin seeing postcard mailers around March 12 and should take notice. If you need any assistance filling out the form, or have further questions, a Complete Count Committee has been formed at FSU to offer assistance. Students will see them tabling at the Lance University Center throughout March and April, or you can reach out to the two student representatives, Scott Warren at smwarren0@frostburg.edu or Cassie Conklin at cnconklin0@frostburg.edu