Florida TaxWatch Census Primer: Agriculture

"Florida TaxWatch Census Primer: Agriculture" sheds light on the significant impact of census undercounts on Florida's agricultural sector. Historically, Florida has experienced notable census undercounts, with the 2020 census missing an estimated 750,000 residents, a statistic that stands out as the state's most substantial loss in recent decades​​. The primer emphasizes the importance of the census count in securing fair federal representation and funding for Florida, highlighting the potential loss of congressional seats and federal funding ranging between $11 billion to $21 billion due to the 2020 undercount​​.

This document delves into the specific consequences of census undercounts for Florida's agriculture, including the loss of federal funding and limitations in essential data. Approximately one-third of Florida farms are located in rural counties, which are particularly vulnerable to undercounts. In Fiscal Year 2022 alone, Florida received $211 million in census-derived funding for rural areas, underscoring the importance of accurate counts​​. The primer also discusses the critical role of the census in shaping demographic estimates and the distribution of characteristics across counties and states, which are vital for planning rural development and food assistance programs.

Looking ahead, the primer encourages stakeholders in Florida's agricultural industry to prepare for the 2030 Census, highlighting the importance of staying informed about census-related issues, encouraging employee participation in the census, advocating for involvement among local businesses and government officials, and investing in community efforts to support a complete count​​. This document is not only an essential read for those in the agricultural sector but also offers valuable insights for policymakers, community leaders, and anyone interested in the far-reaching implications of census data accuracy.