Dear Constituent,

I know this is a challenging time as we come together to help slow the spread of coronavirus COVID-19. But as we shelter in place, right now is an opportune time to take a few minutes to fill out the Census.

Now more than ever, it's vital that every household gets counted. The Census takes place every 10 years with the goal of getting an accurate count of everyone who lives, not only here in California but, throughout the country. Completing the Census is a quick, easy action you can do right now to care for the people you love. An accurate Census count in each of our communities will ensure that our communities receive their fair share of government funding for health care, affordable housing, schools, job training and placement programs, and many other vital services.

You can complete the Census right now online at my2020census.gov or by phone at 844-330-2020.

While California acted quickly to set aside $1.1 billion in state funds to help Californians respond to spread of the coronavirus, Census data will determine whether California gets its share of the billions of federal dollars that will be distributed across the U.S. for the next 10 years. By completing the Census, in just 10 minutes, you can bring $10,000 back to your community for 10 years.

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about the Census:

Is it Safe?

Yes. When completing the Census you won't be asked to share any sensitive information, like immigration status or social security number. Everyone's personal Census data is protected by law, and your identity will be kept anonymous. By federal law, the Census Bureau cannot share your name or responses with anyone, including law enforcement, your landlord, Homeland Security, ICE or any other government agency, and your responses can never be used against you.

Is it Hard to Complete? Will it take a lot of time?

No, completing the Census is quick and easy. And this year's 2020 Census is the first to allow folks to fill it out online at my2020census.gov. You can also complete the Census by phone by calling 844-330-2020 (for non-English language hotlines, click here). And you can, if you prefer, complete your Census on a paper form and mail it in. Households that have not completed the online Census by April 1 will begin to receive paper surveys in the mail starting April 8.

Who do I include in my household's response?

EVERYONE. Everyone living in your household should be counted — no matter whether or not they are related to you, and no matter what their immigration status, age, or criminal history is. Make sure to count any roommates, babies and young children, renters, extended relatives, friends, or workmates who live in your home most of the time. College students who typically live away from home for school should get counted at their college address, even if they are currently home due to the coronavirus. If they did not get their Census letter in the mail due to moving, they can still fill out the survey online or by phone.

If you haven't done so yet, complete the Census right now online at my2020census.gov or by phone at 844-330-2020. If your household does not submit a completed Census survey by late May 2020, you can expect a follow-up visit to your home from a U.S. Census Bureau worker. Completing the Census will prevent an in-person visit.

Thanks for doing your part! It is an honor to serve you in the state Senate.

Sincerely,

Nancy Skinner
Senator, 9th District