SC Counts Information

What is a Census? From a technical definition, a census is the procedure of systematically acquiring and recording information about the members of a population. You may ask, "What does that mean in the USA?" What is a Census in the USA? The Census is a count of the population in all 50 States, the Disctrict of Columbia, and the five U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of he Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). The Census is mandated by the U.S. Constitution in Article 1, Section 2. The Census happens every 10 years. This is the 24th time it will be conducted. The Census is conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency. Why is the Census important to South Carolina and YOU? Each year, the Federal Government distributes approximately $675 billion (yes, billion) to the States. South Carolina averages $7.1 billion in direct Federal aid to the State budget. That's approximately $1,468 per person. We can do better! South Carolina also averages $59 billion in overall Federal aid. This includes Social Security, Disability, aid to Seniors and other categories. Our population is estimated to have grown by 12% from the last Census in 2010. If we don't get everyone counted, precious resources will be stretched THIN! The Census is used to determine distribution of federal resources to each state. Census data is also used to guide decision making for: Where schools, libraries, fire stations, and other public services are located Allocation of resources for Medicaid, SNAP, the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, Head Start, and Highway Planning and Construction for the State of South Carolina. How many seats are allocated to each state in the US House of Representatives. After the 2010 census, SC gained an additional seat to represent our growing population. Data collected during the decennial census is mandated to confidential protection for 72 yea