IL SR0561

April 1, 2010 is Census Day in the United States, with the decennial census mandated by Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution.

Census data informs government decisions on nearly $15 billion in annual funding (approximately $1,100 per capita) for social services, education, and infrastructure programs, and determines Illinois' Congressional apportionment.

The Census 2010 questionnaire contains 6 questions on 10 topics and does not ask about Social Security numbers or immigration status; all information collected is kept confidential by law.

Governor Pat Quinn established a Complete Count Committee on September 20, 2009 to facilitate Illinois' full participation in the 2010 Census.

The Senate urges Illinois citizens to complete the Census 2010 questionnaire by April 1, 2010 and calls on all public officials to cooperate with the U.S. Census Bureau to ensure a complete count.