Assemblyman Bill Reilich (R,C,I-Greece) spoke at yesterday’s opening of the U.S. Census Bureau office in Rochester, NY. The U.S. Census, which is mandated by the Constitution to occur every 10 years, allows the federal government to count each individual residing in the United States, as well as an opportunity to get a better understanding of the demographics of each locality. The results of the U.S. Census help determine the number of congressional seats and electoral votes of each state, as well as local funding for hospitals, schools, emergency services, public works and other vital infrastructure.
“Participation and cooperation during the collection of the 2010 Census data is of vital importance to communities across New York state,” said Reilich. “Not only does the census determine the allocation of over $400 billion in federal funding for local and state projects, but it also determines the number of congressional seats each state is represented by. To lose congressional representation in New York will not only cost us a vote in Washington, but also could mean losing valuable dollars of federal distribution.”
The 2010 U.S. Census is one of the shortest in history. It is composed of 10 simple questions that should take each household less than 10 minutes to complete. When the forms are distributed in the middle of March 2010, households are asked to fill them out immediately and send them back in the postage paid envelopes included. Participation is required by law.
“Our community and our state cannot afford for individuals to not cooperate to the fullest extent during the census process,” stated Reilich. “It is an important civic duty that each and every one of us should be proud to take part in. Participating in the census process is an excellent way to offer a great contribution to your community and your state.”