Why the Census is Important
The data collected by the 2020 census is critical for states, counties, and communities.
Census data determines the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as districts for state government.
Census data guides the allocation of approximately $675 billion in federal funding to local communities every year.
Census data helps communities plan roads, schools, hospitals, senior centers, and emergency services.
Businesses use census data in locating factories, headquarters, stores, recruiting employees, and conducting market research.
Impact of Undercounting
In the 2010 Census, experts estimate that the population was undercounted by 1 percent. The undercount was even higher for minorities — an estimated 2.1 percent of blacks and 1.5 percent of Hispanics were not counted.
Impact for 2020
A 2020 undercount similar to the 2010 Census would result in the loss of $48 million in the Kansas City region for 16 federal programs:
LOSS IN KANSAS
Allen County — $216,999
Johnson County — $10,589,859
Leavenworth County — $1,552,851
Miami County — $541,728
Wyandotte County — $4,740,120
LOSS IN MISSOURI
Cass County — $2,130,501
Clay County — $5,243,883
Jackson County — $20,555,355
Lafayette County — $657,105
Platte County — $2,154,564
Ray County — $451,644
2010 Census Mail Return Rates
The Census Bureau identifies hard-to-count areas by census tract as those with mail-return rates below 73 percent in 2010.
Find details for your county at: www.censushardtocountmaps2020.us
