Alarmed that Florida might not only suffer an under count of population, but ensuing financial losses as well, state Senator Victor Torres (D-Orlando) on Thursday called on Governor Ron DeSantis to issue an Executive Order to create a Census Statewide Complete Count Committee for the upcoming 2020 US Census. In 2009, then Governor Charlie Christ, issued Executive Order 09-41 which created a similar committee to ensure that Florida received the most accurate population count during the 2010 Census.
The purpose of the Committee is to work with federal Census officials to promote participation in the US Census and get the most accurate count of Florida’s current population. Census data is used to establish the electoral representation Florida receives for members of Congress, establishing district boundaries for state legislative offices and demographic data is used in formulas that award federal funding to Florida in areas like public education, health and human services.
“I believe it is in the best interest of Florida for all residents to get accurately counted in next year’s US Census,” said Torres. “The census will determine our state’s fair share of Congressional representation and assure we receive the maximum amount of federal funding for Florida over the next decade. This should be a bi-partisan, non-political issue that leaders from both parties can support and I am optimistic that the Governor will join in this effort by creating the Census Count Committee.”
For more information, please contact Al Yorston at 407-846-5187.
