This month, the Florida Chamber of Commerce Foundation (FCF), a statewide, business-led, nonpartisan research organization, released a new county-by-county study examining the impact of undercounting in the 2020 Census.
FCF announced that 750,000 Floridians were not counted in the 2020 Census. The undercount resulted in an estimated $11.4 billion in federal funds that could have been used to support schools, health care, roads and community programs, and about $1 billion a year going to other states that should go to Floridians.
This study highlights the widespread impact of undercounts on the flow of federal funding that supports local communities and essential services.
“At the Florida Chamber Foundation, we know that an accurate count is more than just a number on a page,” said Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber Foundation. “This is the foundation for equity, investment, and opportunity in communities across Florida. We must earn the 2030 Census and ensure that all residents and communities benefit from receiving their fair share of funding.”
By 2030, Florida is projected to grow by more than 2.5 million residents, welcome 40 million visitors a year, and bring approximately 2.1 million new drivers to its roads.
“Getting the 2030 Census right is critical to ensuring our communities have the resources they need for long-term growth and prosperity,” said Dr. Keith Richard, vice president of research at the Florida Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “The 2020 Census undercount shows what is at stake. Every Florida resident counted means more funding for schools, infrastructure, health care, and economic development in every county.”
