Population Estimates: Why They Are Important, How They Can Be Used, and What Can Be Done About Quality

Concerns about the quality of coverage of the 2020 Decennial Census have raised interest in the process for jurisdictions challenging population estimates in the coming years. We imagine that some cities or counties would come to NNIP partners for assistance in compiling evidence that their population is larger than the estimates.  The Census Bureau is considering revisions to the program (which was very restricted in the 2010-2020 period) in light of the challenges with the 2020 Census.  The Bureau is expected to publish their new proposal for the challenge process through a Federal Register announcement late this year, and we think it would be good for the Bureau to understand local stakeholders interests and concerns.  

In this discussion, Chris Dick (currently of Demographic Analytics Advisors and former chief of the Population Evaluations, Estimates, and Analysis branch for population estimates) and Denice Ross (Georgetown's Beeck Center and NNIP alumni) will present the current opportunity for influencing the Census Bureau's proposal, as well as hear ideas and concerns from partners.