A recent study by the Florida Chamber Foundation has found that Florida lost over $11 billion in federal funding due to an undercount in the 2020 Census. The report details how this shortfall has affected local communities and reduced resources for essential services.
Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Foundation, stated, “At the Florida Chamber Foundation, we know accurate counting is not just numbers on a page. It is the foundation for fairness, investment, and opportunity in communities across Florida. We must get the 2030 Census right to make certain every resident and community benefits by receiving its fair share of funding.”
Florida’s population is expected to grow significantly by 2030, with projections indicating more than 2.5 million new residents, about 40 million annual visitors, and roughly 2.1 million additional drivers on state roadways.
Dr. Keith Richard, Vice President of Research for the Florida Chamber Foundation, emphasized the importance of census accuracy: “Getting the 2030 Census right is important to guarantee communities have the resources they need for long-term growth and prosperity. The 2020 Census undercount shows what is at stake. Every Floridian counted means more funding for schools, infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development in every county.”
The study includes a breakdown by county that can help policymakers and other stakeholders understand where efforts should be focused ahead of the next census count. The Foundation urges all relevant groups to use this analysis as they prepare outreach strategies for the 2030 Census.
More information about the findings can be found in the Florida Chamber Foundation Census Undercount Study.
