Census Bureau Invites Public Feedback for 2030 Planning

The US Census Bureau is inviting the public to share their ideas for an improved 2030 Census, saying that feedback is critical for informing plans for the next decennial headcount.

By mid-decade, in 2024, the Bureau expects to decide the initial operational design for the 2030 Census, after which, it will refine procedures and put technology and other infrastructure in place for the national count. As part of the census planning efforts, the public is invited to share feedback on how the Bureau can improve the public's experience during the 2030 Census, and with this input, the Bureau will aim to better reach and count historically undercounted people, and encourage everyone to respond to the next census.

Specifically, the Bureau is looking for recommendations on reaching and motivating everyone. Input is also sought on technological advancements which could make responding to the census more user-friendly and increase the percentage of people who respond. For the 2030 Census, the Bureau is looking at using alternative data sources combined with traditional methods to improve data quality; along with recommendations about tools and messages which could be used to invite people to respond. Additionally, the Bureau has asked for input on how to support people as they respond - whether online, by phone, by mail, in English or in another language - and how to improve access for people with disabilities.

Comments must be received by November 15, 2022, and can either be submitted by e-mail to: DCMD.2030.Research@census.gov or online through the Federal Register Notice link: www.census.gov/2030census .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.