We know you received a notice in the mail. Probably more than one.
But have you acted?
Wednesday was Census Day, the official day that determines who resides where for the 2020 U.S. Census. That means when you submit your census form, either online or by mail, you include everyone living at your address on April 1.
It's not a deadline as the census will continue until later in the year. But the Census Bureau must submit a count to the president by the end of the year, so the sooner we all comply, the easier it will be for them to complete that mission.
Some folks don't think the census is all that important, especially when the country is struggling with the COVID-19 outbreak.
But the population count every decade determines how many members each state will have in the House of Representatives and how many votes each will have in the Electoral College. Every decade, some states gain, other lose.
The census also determines where billions in federal funds are allocated. Billions that help pay for a variety of essential programs and services, as well as infrastructure construction and maintenance.
You don't want Texas or Arkansas to miss out on those dollars. And those funds also flow to the local level and that means the two Texarkanas. We need that money here at home.
This year the census form could be completed online and for most folks was a quick, easy and painless process. The mail-in option is also available.
And for those who continue to procrastinate? Well, a Census Bureau worker will be knocking at your door to take your information in person.
We encourage you to complete the census as soon as possible. After all, with the self-quarantine in place, you have the time and no excuse.