ACSE Act American Community Survey Elimination Act
Impact
The termination of the ACS would lead to significant changes in the way demographic data is collected and utilized. The loss of this data could adversely affect local governments, businesses, and researchers who rely on accurate and timely statistical information for decision-making. Without the ACS, states and localities may struggle to obtain a comprehensive picture of their communities, leading to less informed policy-making and resource allocation.
Summary
House Bill 7399, titled the 'American Community Survey Elimination Act' or 'ACSE Act', seeks to terminate the American Community Survey (ACS) conducted by the Bureau of the Census. Introduced on February 15, 2024, the bill is designed to prevent the federal government from carrying out this survey and prohibits any federal funds from being obligated or expended for this purpose. The ACS is a key tool used to gather demographic, housing, and economic data from American households, which in turn informs about various federal and state programs and policies.
Contention
Debate around HB 7399 is likely to center on the importance of data collection for governance and planning, juxtaposed against arguments regarding the necessity of limiting federal data collection. Proponents of the bill argue that the survey is an expensive and inefficient use of taxpayer funds, which could be redirected to other critical areas. Critics, however, contend that eliminating the ACS compromises the quality of data needed for economic development, public health planning, and infrastructure improvements, pointing out that reliable demographic data is essential for effective governance.