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Your Census response affects critical funding and Congressional power

The federal funding decided by the Census affects programs such as school lunches, highway construction, and education.

ALABAMA, USA — A little more than half of Alabama households have participated in the census so far.

This is the first year that people are able to answer the census online, and it was encouraged even before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Census responses determines federal funding, Congressional representation, and districting. You can find out more about how the Census affects your community here.

Why does it matter?

The results show where communities need new schools, new clinics, new roads, and more services for families, older adults, and children. They also determine where more than $675 billion in federal dollars is allocated across the U.S. per year and are used for public safety and emergency preparedness planning as well as determining where to build local schools, libraries, police and fire stations.

Alabama's self-responsive rate is currently at 51.7%, which is below the national response rate of 53.4%. Madison County's response rate is at 63.5%.

Concerned about the security of your information?

According to census.gov, the official U.S. census website, under Title 13 of theU.S. Code, the Census Bureau cannot release any identifiable informa-tion about individuals, households, or businesses, even to law enforcement agencies. The law states that the information collected may only be used for statistical purposes and no other purpose.  

What about COVID-19 and the Census?

The 2020 Census can be completed online, by phone, or by mail. Click here to learn more.

RELATED: VERIFY: Could the Census be canceled or delayed amid coronavirus pandemic?

RELATED: VERIFY: Nothing suggests the proposed stimulus checks will depend on the Census


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