Decennial Census of the Population of Americans; Proposed Residence Criteria and Proposed Regulations for Demographic Questions 

NSDA Submits Comments on proposed changes to the 2030 Census which could impact special districts:

NSDA US Census Letter 11.2.26.pdf

The U.S. Census Bureau has proposed new regulations for the 2030 Decennial Census that could change who is counted, how population data is collected, and how census results are used. They are proposing to: " add two new parts to the Code of Federal Regulations governing the decennial census of population and housing. First, the Census Bureau is proposing to add a part outlining the residence criteria used for identifying each person's “usual residence,” as needed to determine whether and where to count them in the census of the population throughout the United States. Second, the Census Bureau is proposing to add a part establishing standards and restrictions for the inclusion of certain demographic questions on the decennial census short-form questionnaire and any other questionnaire used for the enumeration of the population."

Why It Matters to Special Districts

Accurate census data is essential for effective public service planning and decision-making. Special districts rely on population data to anticipate community growth, plan infrastructure investments, allocate resources, and deliver critical services, including water, wastewater, fire protection, libraries, emergency services, and flood control.

Changes to census counting methods could affect population estimates used by cities, counties, and special districts to plan for future needs and inform funding decisions. Inaccurate or incomplete counts could leave communities and the districts serving them without the data needed to make informed decisions.

NSDA’s Position

The National Special Districts Association (NSDA) supports accurate and comprehensive population counts that help cities, counties, and special districts understand the communities they serve. Reliable census data is critical to sound planning, responsible resource allocation, and the delivery of essential public services.

NSDA will continue monitoring developments related to the 2030 Census and encourages special districts to stay informed about proposed changes that could affect their communities and operations.

Learn More: Read the proposed rule in the Federal Register