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2010 Census

Census Day is April 1, 2010! The US Census is a count of everyone living in the United States every 10 years and is mandated by the U.S. Constitution. The next census will occur in 2010.

It's important. Census data are used to distribute Congressional seats to states, to make decisions about what community services to provide, and to distribute $400 billion in federal funds to local, state and tribal governments each year.

It's easy. The 2010 Census Form will have just 10 questions to answer and takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Look for a Census form to be mailed to your household in the near future. We encourage residents to complete and return their Census questionnaire to ensure that Santa Barbara County has a complete Census count.

It's confidential. Federal law protects the personal information you share during the census. Census data is strictly confidential--not even the President of the United States can access individual responses!

It's required by law. A decennial census is mandated by the U.S. Constitution, and participation in the census is required. It's quick and easy, though; help make a difference in your community by spreading the word about the 2010 Census!