Proposed Census Rule Could Leave Washington Communities Undercounted: Nonprofits Urged to Speak Up
Public comments are now due November 2, 2026
An accurate census is essential to ensuring Washington communities receive fair political representation and the public resources they need. But a proposed federal rule could significantly change how the 2030 Census counts people and collects demographic information, raising concerns for nonprofits, community organizations, and the people they serve.
The National Council of Nonprofits (NCN) is urging charitable organizations and community members to speak up before the November 2, 2026, deadline for public comments. See the NCN Comment Guide for details.
What Would the Proposed Rule Change?
On September 10, 2026, the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Census Bureau announced a proposed rule that would change who is counted in the decennial census and limit which demographic questions appear on census forms.
The National Council of Nonprofits says the proposal could leave out many groups from the population count, such as international students, some visa holders, refugees, asylum seekers, undocumented immigrants, and other immigrants. It would also remove questions about race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation from the census form.
These proposed changes have raised concerns about whether the census would accurately reflect the people living in the United States and provide reliable information about communities’ needs. The rule is still proposed, and public comments offer an opportunity to express concerns before the federal government makes a final decision.
Why Does the Census Matter to Washington Nonprofits?
Census data do much more than determine representation in Congress. They also help decide how federal money is distributed and guide choices about public services, infrastructure, and community investments.
Washington nonprofits rely on accurate population and demographic data to understand who needs services, identify gaps in access, plan programs, and make the case for funding. An undercount could affect communities’ ability to demonstrate their needs and secure resources.
For example, organizations working in housing, food security, health care, education, immigrant services, and family support use population information to understand local conditions and plan their work. If census data fail to reflect the full population, organizations and public agencies could have a less complete picture of the people who need assistance.
Missing demographic information can also make it harder to spot differences between groups, track results, and see if programs are reaching everyone fairly.
For Washington’s nonprofit sector, an accurate and complete census is an important part of effective community planning, advocacy, and service delivery.
How Can Nonprofits Take Action?
Nonprofits do not need to wait until the 2030 Census to make their voices heard. The current public comment period provides an opportunity to explain how the proposed changes could affect their communities.
The National Council of Nonprofits recommends three actions:
- Submit a public comment. Explain why an accurate count and reliable demographic information matter to your organization and the people you serve.
- Sign the national nonprofit letter. Add your organization’s voice to the collective response opposing the proposed changes.
- Share the information. Encourage nonprofit colleagues, community partners, and other stakeholders to learn about the proposal and participate.
Organizations can use the National Council of Nonprofits’ comment guide for background information, suggested talking points, a comment template, and submission instructions.
Make Your Voice Count
The census plays a key role in decisions about representation, funding, and community priorities for the next ten years. Nonprofits in Washington see firsthand how census policies impact the services they provide and the well-being of local communities.
By submitting comments before November 2, nonprofits and community members can help make the case for a fair, complete, and accurate 2030 Census—one that reflects the people who call Washington and the United States home.