WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), the U.S. House Assistant Speaker, joined the Statewide Census Day of Action urging New Mexicans to participate in the 2020 U.S. Census before the September 30 deadline. The 2020 U.S. Census will determine the allocation of more than $800 billion in federal funds and political representation over the next decade.
This week, Congressman Luján joined the New Mexico Delegation in warning that the Census Bureau’s current operations plan could result in an undercount, costing New Mexico $780 million dollars in federal funding if residents are undercounted by only one percent. Tribes in New Mexico stand to lose $2 million each on average over the next ten years if just one percent of their population is not counted.
New Mexico is at risk of an undercount due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Census Bureau’s decision to shorten the deadline to participate in the 2020 Census by a full month.
“With just 16 days left to participate in the 2020 Census, our state is in danger of being undercounted. More than $70 billion hangs in the balance for New Mexico over the next decade, and it’s crucial for our future that New Mexico receives our fair share. These vital funds will go toward our schools, roads, and so much more that we depend on each day,” said Luján. “I want New Mexicans to know that it’s never been easier or safer to participate in the 2020 Census, and there’s no better time to participate than right now.”
New Mexicans are encouraged to respond to the Census immediately by visiting my2020census.gov; calling 844-330-2020 for English or 844-468-2020 for Spanish; or returning their completed questionnaire in the envelope provided.