Rep. Charlie Wilson is urging residents to fill out forms part of the 2010 Census, which he said is a vital tool of their democracy.
The results of the Census will determine how more than $445 billion in federal funds for everything from schools to roads to senior centers are distributed to state, local and tribal governments over the next decade.
It also affects representation in Congress and the Electoral College.
"We've always struggled to get our fair share," he said in a press release. "We can't afford to be undercounted and lose vital funding."
The 2000 Census had a 67 percent national response rate, with an estimated undercount of more than three million people, said the release.
"Areas most affected by Census undercounting lose about $2,913 in federal funds per uncounted person," he said. "Our area just can't afford that."
He also warned that residents should be wary of scams that attempt to collect personal information. People should review all mailings carefully to ensure that they are from the bureau. The bureau documents will neer ask for personal information like social security numbers, money or donations.
The 2010 Census consists of 10 questions. The Census is conducted every 10 years.
For more information, call Wilson's office at 888-706-1833 or
click here.
