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H.R.1178 / 105th Congress

To amend title 13, United States Code, to make clear that sampling may be used in order to improve the accuracy of the decennial censuses of population, and for other purposes.

Referred to the Subcommittee on National Security, International Affairs and Criminal Justice.

Official summary

Version 00 · Introduced in House · Mar 20, 1997

Amends Federal law to authorize the use of sampling to determine the total U.S. population by State with respect to the decennial census for purposes of the apportionment of Representatives in Congress among the several States, provided it is used in conjunction with a good faith effort using non-sampling techniques and is necessary in order to achieve a more accurate census. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, with respect to each decennial and mid-decade census, to report to the appropriate congressional committees on: (1) how it is proposed that the actual enumeration be carried out; (2) what types of surveys or statistical methods are proposed to be used in connection with such enumeration; and (3) how such surveys or methods would help achieve a more accurate census. Requires collection: (1) as part of the decennial census of population or population and housing characteristics data that is used for purposes of determining benefits to State, county, or local units of government; and (2) contemporaneously with the collection of data for purposes of the apportionment of Representatives in Congress among the several States. Authorizes collection of such data through sampling.

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Who introduced it

Rep. Maloney, Carolyn B. [D-NY-14] · D–NY

Committees

  • Oversight and Government Reform Committee
10 cosponsorship records, including any withdrawals

Actions

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  1. Referred to the Subcommittee on National Security, International Affairs and Criminal Justice.

  2. Referred to the House Committee on Government Reform and Oversight.

  3. Introduced in House

  4. Introduced in House

Bill text & related measures

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Related bills identified by Congress.gov

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Source last updated: Apr 7, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.

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Objective

Analyze H.R.1178 as objectively as possible. Explain its main provisions, who would be affected, possible benefits and harms, implementation, exceptions, and uncertainties. Present the strongest arguments for and against it, and identify evidence needed to assess its public impact.

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Fairness and public impact

Progressive lens

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Institutions and government scope

Conservative lens

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Individual rights and government power

Liberty lens

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