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 emphasizes how this shortfall affects local communities and key services funded by federal dollars.
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.”
The state is expected to see significant growth by 2030, with projections indicating more than 2.5 million new residents, around 40 million annual visitors, and about 2.1 million additional drivers on its roads.
Dr. Keith Richard, Vice President of Research for the Florida Chamber Foundation, added, “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 detailed breakdown by county to help guide policymakers and other stakeholders as they prepare for future census outreach efforts. The Foundation encourages leaders from various sectors to review its findings and support participation initiatives ahead of the next census cycle.
More information can be found in the full Florida Chamber Foundation Census Undercount Study.
