2020 U.S. Census Extension Provides More Time for Responses

In response to the difficulties presented by the Covid-19 crisis, the U.S. Census Bureau has extended the 2020 U.S. Census data collection deadline to October 31. With the outbreak and spread of the virus, the U.S. Census Bureau had to temporarily stop all door-to-door transactions for the 2020 U.S. Census. The extension provides more time for families to submit the information critical to the economic vitality of businesses and communities. 

Census data is important to businesses

The U.S. Census data is very helpful for businesses, developers and governments. Every 10 years, the U.S. Census aims to count the entire population of the United States and asks American households certain questions, such as sex, age, and race of each person in the household. Businesses use Census data to decide the best place for them to locate or expand, enhance hiring practices and identify skilled workers. The data provides the basis for distributing grants for economic development, such as how much funding each state, county, and community receives of the $675 billion spent annually on critical transportation services like maintenance and construction of roads and bridges. Developers can use growth projections to help revitalize areas by identifying prime locations for new operations or shutting down old ones. And governments use Census data to determine congressional representation and support the development of programs through funding to address specific needs of neighborhoods, such as schools, hospitals, public works and other essential programs.

Census data collection extended

The Census data collection process was originally scheduled to be completed by July 31, 2020, but in-person house calls have been postponed until July 1. The Census data is now rescheduled to be completed and delivered to the President of the United States by April 30, 2021. Historically, the Census data was collected through the mail or in-person house calls by Census workers. In 2020, the U.S. Census has encouraged residents to complete the census online or through the phone, with census workers following up with visits to residences that did not complete the census. 

So, what does this mean for the 2020 U.S. Census? It means that everyone is encouraged to fill out their Census information online, via phone, or by mail self-responses throughout the collection process.

Most households received an invitation to respond to the 2020 Census in March 2020. Each household is given a Census ID that helps when completing the online Census. For households who want to fill out the Census online visit my2020Census.gov to complete your Census information. Households can also mail in their responses or call 844-330-2020 to complete the Census via phone.

Continued importance

The U.S. Census Bureau is doing its best to ensure that the Census continues while also protecting the health of its employees and fellow Americans. The Bureau is dedicated to gathering the most accurate information from each household to ensure that communities are receiving the funding they deserve. The Bureau urges people to continue to participate in the Census via online, phone, or mail-in responses. Check 2020Census.gov for updates on the Covid-19 crisis and updates on the 2020 Census.

We here at Powder River Energy Corporation hope you and your family are staying safe during this time. Please continue to check back for more information regarding the Covid-19 crisis and how this will continue to affect the 2020 U.S. Census.

Powder River Energy Corporation (PRECorp) is known as northeastern Wyoming’s preferred energy provider. The nonprofit cooperative also works diligently with its member-owners to improve the communities it serves. PRECorp has developed powerful partnerships with private, public and nonprofit organizations. These collaborative efforts aim to strengthen communities and create a more diverse economy.