Massachusetts faces a critical 2030 U.S. Census, with leaders warning an undercount could cost federal funding and congressional seats. A Senate hearing chaired by Sen. Paul Mark (D-Pittsfield) launched this week to boost accuracy.
Census data shapes $1.5 trillion in annual federal aid, district lines, and services like health and transport. The state lost a House seat in 2010 due to slow growth; another hit could worsen fiscal woes.
Western Massachusetts—Mark’s district—risks most from outmigration. “We can’t afford an undercount,” Mark said, aligning with Secretary of State William Galvin. The 2020 count succeeded regionally, but UMass experts warn complacency endangers rural schools, roads, and care.
Map showing the percentage change in Massachusetts City and Town Populations from the Census in 2010 to the Census in 2020. U.S. Census photo.…