Don't forget to get counted

For the first time since the U.S. Census was launched, this year Americans will have the ability to stand up and be counted via the internet. The 2020 Census has begun and your options to respond now include an online questionnaire.

“As far back as 1790, we’ve been counting everyone who lives in this country. We call it the census. America’s founders included the census in the Constitution because they wanted a government that represents the people,” says County Clerk Linda Fritz, urging Crook County residents to make sure you respond.

Homes have already begun receiving their invitation to respond to the census, which include detailed information and an ID for completing it online, as well as by phone or mail.

“Article 1 Section 2 mandates that a census occur every ten years. That count is used to allocate seats in the House of Representatives for all 50 states,” says Fritz.

“But the census is all that and more. It’s a once-a-decade chance to track the shifts in population across our country.”

This information is critical to help decide where more schools, hospitals and roads are needed, for example.

“Your response to the 2020 Census will inform how billions in federal funding flow to communities every year,” says Fritz.

This includes how funding is allocated to over 100 programs, including Medicaid, Head Start and the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP).

The census also affects state government funding allocations to cities and towns, which are based on total population, and helps communities respond to natural disasters.

“Everyone living in your household on April 1 needs to get counted as part of the 2020 Census. By being counted in the 2020 Census, you will help inform funding for local school programs, emergency services, and roads in our communities,” says Fritz. 

One person should respond for each home. That person should be at least 15 years old and live in that place of residence, and should also know general information about the other people living there.

“Please take a few minutes to participate in the 2020 Census. Shape your future,” says Fritz.