Ohio Sues US Census Bureau
The State of Ohio, on Thursday, dragged the US Census Bureau before the Federal Court, seeking to compel the Bureau to release the population data relevant to the state’s upcoming congressional redistricting process.
As reported by Reuters, Ohio’s Attorney General, Dave Yost, in a statement said the US Federal Government is acting contrary to the law by delaying the release of census data.
“The people of Ohio have found ways to meet their responsibilities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic-adapting how we run businesses, caring for loved ones, home schooling children. Why should the government create a double standard?,” Yost asked.
The US census data, used once a decade to redraw legislative districts, will not be made available until September, officials said earlier this month, a delay that could make it difficult for states to finish new maps in time for the 2022 congressional elections.
Reuters reported that in announcing a new release date of September 30, the Census Bureau cited lingering delays caused by the coronavirus pandemic, which forced the bureau to shut down many of its data collection operations last spring as lockdowns swept the country.
However, Ohio’s lawsuit asked a federal judge to restore a March 31 deadline for the Census Bureau to turn over 2020 census figures that are used for redrawing congressional and legislative districts, instead of the September 30 deadline.
The Bureau previously set a target of July, which was already months later than the data is typically provided to states.
