Charles W. Stenholm: “though much of the debate on correcting the undercount of the census is centered around the number of people not counted…”

“though much of the debate on correcting the undercount of the census is centered around the number of people not counted in urban areas, as one who represents a very rural district, I want to highlight the fact that people in rural areas are being missed as well. In fact, some of our rural areas are undercounted to a greater degree than the entire country. According to the Census Bureau, the net undercount for the Nation in 1990 was 1.6 percent, while rural areas were undercounted at a rate of 5.9 percent. I want to emphasize that accuracy is critical. Let there be no disagreement on that as we prepare for the 2000 census. The Census Bureau should form early and active partnerships with State and local governments so that these governments will have an early opportunity to review census address lists and maps for their area. This amendment will remove the restrictive language included in the bill and allow the Census Bureau to continue to plan for the 2000 census. Their proposal, which is supported by scientists and statistical experts, should improve accuracy and save costs. It is fascinating to sit here and listen to colleague after colleague argue against the best science available.”