Letter to the Editor - Be sure to complete the Census before heading outdoors

Letter to the Editor:

Many of us are itching, probably more than ever, to experience all the great things that long summer days in Montana bring. One simple, but critically important thing to do before heading out is to complete the Census.

The number of individuals counted determines the amount of state funding allocated by the government. In Montana, for every person that’s not counted, we stand to lose $20,000 per person over the next 10 years. That’s funding for hospitals, schools, infrastructure and more — we know how important those resources are to our health and safety in the current health pandemic.

Additionally, the Census determines how many seats each state is given in the House of Representatives. Montana is projected to gain an additional Representative, but only if everyone is counted.

The Census is especially important for students: It directs funds to housing projects and even affects the cost of going to college. Federal expenditures like Pell Grants rely on a census-derived figure.

Taking a census of every single person is constitutionally mandated, and has been held every 10 years since 1790. Participating in the Census is the obligation of everyone who calls America home.

The Census will impact state funding and the futures of Montanans for the next decade. It is imperative that everyone fill out the Census for the sake of not only ourselves, but our community. Get yourself counted — go online to http://www.my2020census.gov or call 844-330-2020. Then go safely enjoy the welcome spring weather.

Aubrey Bertram

Billings