ARLINGTON HEIGHTS –  State Senator Ann Gillespie                    (D-Arlington Heights) is asking residents to participate in the 2020 Census and cautioning them about the consequences of failing to      fill it out before the deadline that is now just three weeks away.

Cook County is reporting a lower response rate compared to its previous rate in 2010, which could and most likely will affect everything from how congressional districts are drawn to how highway funds are allocated.

“This is serious. If we don’t come together as a community, we’ll all lose federal representation which directly effects the opportunities our communities are afforded,” Gillespie said.” This year the census has a new online option, it’s easier than before to fill out. When I filled out mine, it took me less than 10 minutes to complete."

The census is now safer, more secure, and just as confidential. Filling out the form is crucial as 2020 brings new congressional district maps, helps determine how federal funds flow into states and provides information that will affect communities across Illinois for the next 10 years. Currently, 82.8% of Arlington Heights residents, 78.7% of Palatine residents and 79.6% of Mount Prospect residents have filled out the form this year. Although many of the communities in the 27th Illinois Senate District have a higher response rate than 2010, its still important to fill out your census if you haven’t done so, Gillespie said.

“Until there’s a 100% response rate, schools, roads, hospitals and other critical community services are not getting every cent of the federal taxes they've paid,” Gillespie said. “This determines so much about what federal money comes to Illinois, so let's make sure we all count.”

Residents can complete the census for their household at https://my2020census.gov, or by calling 844-330-2020.