Trump administration proposes changes to 2030 Census rules

The Trump administration has announced a proposal to change the methodology for the 2030 U.S. Census, which could significantly impact congressional seat apportionment and the distribution of federal funds. Under the new rules, the census would count U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents but exclude undocumented immigrants and foreign nationals on temporary visas, such as students or workers.

Historically, the census has counted all residents regardless of citizenship or legal status. This shift could reduce the political representation and federal resources available to states and cities with large immigrant populations. The proposal also suggests eliminating questions regarding race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation from the decennial questionnaire, citing a desire to reduce respondent burden and protect privacy.

Civil rights and immigrant advocacy groups have condemned the move. Critics argue that removing demographic data will hinder the ability to identify social disparities and enforce civil rights protections. In New York, officials are considering legal action, noting that the proposal may conflict with the 14th Amendment, which mandates counting the ‘whole number of persons’ in each state for House apportionment.