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Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the 2020 Census. Every decade, the Census shapes important local infrastructure and investment decisions like where to build new schools, establish workforce training sites, invest in road and public transportation projects, and fund health care and affordable housing. The Census also determines how many Members of Congress are allocated per state and informs decisions about Congressional district lines, ensuring fair representation.
An accurate Census is vital to the well-being of Washington's communities. That is why I oppose adding a citizenship question to the Census. By enabling informed decisions, accurate Census data can create jobs, stimulate economic growth and increase employment opportunities for people in Washington's Second District. Adding an un-tested citizenship question will sow fear and lead people to not respond to the Census survey, negatively impacting local communities.
Madam Speaker, I continue to support a well-researched and just 2020 Census to foster innovation, growth and prosperity for Washington state communities.
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