A recent study by the Florida Chamber Foundation reports that Florida lost more than $11 billion in federal funding due to an undercount in the 2020 Census. The findings underscore how this shortfall has affected local communities and reduced support for essential services.
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.”
Florida’s population is expected to increase by over 2.5 million people by 2030. In addition, state projections indicate that there will be about 40 million visitors annually and roughly 2.1 million new drivers using its roads.
Dr. Keith Richard, Vice President of Research for the Florida Chamber Foundation, said, “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 county-by-county breakdown intended to help policymakers, civic leaders, nonprofit organizations, and business stakeholders prepare for better outreach ahead of the next census count in 2030. The Foundation encourages all parties to review its analysis and work together on participation efforts.
The full report from the Florida Chamber Foundation can be accessed online through their Census Undercount Study.
