How does the 2020 Census Impact Leon County?
The results of the 2020 Census will be used to determine how nearly $675 billion in federal funds are distributed annually to state, local and tribal areas. This data informs programs like Medicaid, Medicare Part B, Head Start, block grants, school lunches, highway construction, early and adult education, community health services, the Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP) and much more. To put it simply, data collected from conducting the Census can significantly impact federal funding allocated to community programs and initiatives.
The results of the 2020 Census also determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, and they are used to draw congressional and state legislative districts. For example, population changes indicated after the 2010 Census resulted in eight states gaining seats and 10 states losing seats in the House of Representatives.
Population data including increases and decreases collected from the Census is also used to adjust or redraw electoral districts.
Businesses also rely on Census data that tell the story of population trends and growth projects. This information is key for business owners looking to make decisions such as where to open stores and what products and services to offer.
Learn more about the Census’s Impact on Your Community.