AUDIO: Frye Reminds Local Residents To Complete Census

2020 Census Surge Week highlights state and county response rates.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - According to State Rep. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg), 2020 census responses are critical to future federal funding in local communities, and Hoosiers should respond now if they have not already done so.

Census Surge Week kicked off Monday to remind residents to complete their 2020 census forms before door-to-door visits begin in some areas around the country as early as July 20. Frye said Indiana is currently tied for 10th in the nation for response rate, with nearly two-thirds of Hoosier census forms submitted.

"Hoosiers who have not filled out their census response forms should do so now," Frye said. "Submitting this information is required by law and helps shapes future federal funding for our roads, schools and many other aspects of our communities."

Frye encourages residents to visit 2020census.gov to fill out the census online. Hoosiers can also call 844-330-2020 or mail back the questionnaire sent to households.

Census takers will begin visiting nonresponding households in southeast Indiana starting July 23 to ensure every resident is counted. Frye said a number of households still need to respond from the following counties:

• Dearborn County, 29%
• Decatur County, 33%
• Jefferson County, 35%
• Jennings County, 37%
• Ohio County, 33%
• Ripley County, 33%
• Switzerland County, 45%

Census workers will wear masks and follow local public health guidelines when they visit households. All census takers complete a virtual COVID-19 training on social distancing, and other health and safety protocols before beginning their work in neighborhoods.

Frye said everyone is required to fill out the census every 10 years by law, and the information is kept confidential. Personal information cannot be used against respondents by any government agency or court.

According to Frye, billions of dollars in federal funding to support education, housing, health and public safety are on the line as this data impacts strategic planning decisions about statewide job training, locations of new businesses and public transportation projects.

Self-responses are due by Oct. 31, 2020.