NY Attorney General Encourages Residents To Participate In Census

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — As state officials attempt to ensure an accurate count of New York’s population, New York Attorney General Letitia James is encouraging residents statewide to complete the decennial census questionnaire. Wednesday is considered “Census Day” and while counts are based on people’s permanent residence, those who do not have a permanent address are counted in the place where they reside on April 1. Although the census count is already underway, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has adjusted the timeline that the U.S. Census Bureau to complete this year’s count.

According to a Census Bureau news release issued earlier this week, the bureau is suspending field counts until April 15 as a step to protect the health and safety of the public, Census Bureau employees and everyone going through the hiring process for temporary census-taking positions.

Still, James is encouraging New York residents to complete the questionnaire as state officials seek to conduct an accurate count.

The census is a fundamental tool of our democracy,” James said in the release. “As of today, every New York household has received an invitation to participate in the 2020 Census. An accurate count not only ensures that New York gets the representation we deserve and our fair share of federal funding, but it is critical to opening doors of opportunity for communities most in need. Everything from public schools to health care to roads and transportation depend on an accurate count. And with the coronavirus raging, many people may not be focused on the census.

“But, in this time of unprecedented health and economic uncertainty, it is more important than ever that everyone be counted. It has never been easier to respond online, over the phone, or by mail — all at a safe social distance.”