Census Bureau Now Accepting Challenges to 2020 Results

The U.S. Census Bureau is accepting requests by local officials to review their official 2020 Census housing counts for potential processing errors in its 2020 Census Count Question Resolution Operation. Through the formal review process, the bureau ensures that housing and population counts are correctly allocated to 2020 Census tabulation blocks. Cases may be submitted through June 30, 2023. 

Townships interested in submitting a request through this process should be aware that Census tabulation block data is not yet available for Pennsylvania municipalities but is expected to be available soon. PSATS will provide updates as the information is released. Block data release from Penn State Data Center is awaiting approval from the Wolf Administration. Meanwhile, township officials may contact the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services at the state Department of Community and Economic Development toll-free at 888-223-6837 if they encounter any issues. 

Township officials should note that the CQR program will not alter redistricting data or apportionment results. However, this data will be used in the Census Bureau’s population estimates program and funding programs that use 2020 Census data. 

A separate proposed program will allow local officials to request a review of group quarters population counts (prisons, schools and nursing homes). Click here for more on the proposed group quarters program.