Fighting Rumors With Facts

Hi Friend, 

In the time of COVID-19, I sincerely hope you and your family are safe & healthy! Recently, you might have seen posts on social media linking the Census to the stimulus package proposed by the Senate. The posts allege that a stimulus check was contingent upon you filling out your 2020 Census.

This is completely FALSE. The 2020 Census has nothing to do with the proposed stimulus check. Stimulus checks are designed to provide immediate financial help to Americans suffering from economic hardship due to major economic changes. 

In fact, the Census is 100% confidential. The individual responses and personal data are kept private and not released to any other state or federal agencies for at least 72 years. The Census Bureau has debunked this rumor, media outlets have spoken out, and now organizations are joining the fight to combat inaccurate and misleading information. 

Census data determines the funding for much-needed resources like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Women Infants and Children (WIC).  All of these programs are helping people who are laid off due to COVID19. 

If you have not filled out the Census yet, now is a great time to do it! Remember, filling out the Census helps your community by providing an accurate count of ALL Nevadans. Without an accurate count, we do not get the necessary funding for programs that we desperately need.

Be safe & well

Amber Falgout

Northern Nevada Manager, Institute for a Progressive Nevada