The Massachusetts Senate Committee on the Census convened on June 16, 2025, to address significant challenges related to the upcoming 2030 Census. Key discussions focused on the difficulties of accurately counting the state's diverse population, particularly non-native born residents and students, amid ongoing concerns about citizenship and participation.

Committee members highlighted the unique demographic landscape of Massachusetts, where over a million residents are non-native born. This population often faces barriers to participating in the Census due to misunderstandings about the government's intentions and fears surrounding their immigration status. The pandemic further complicated these efforts in 2020, as many individuals were unreachable, and there was a heightened rhetoric suggesting that only citizens should be counted.

The committee emphasized the importance of counting students, who represent a significant portion of the state's population. With numerous higher education institutions, the challenge of counting students living off-campus became critical, especially when universities closed in spring 2020. The committee praised the collaborative efforts of local governments and community organizations in providing necessary data to the Census Bureau, which ultimately helped Massachusetts achieve a population count exceeding 7 million.

Looking ahead, the committee stressed the need for thorough preparation for the 2030 Census. They discussed the Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) program, which is vital for ensuring accurate housing records. Concerns were raised about the quality of local records, particularly due to personnel changes in local election offices and the reluctance of non-native born residents to provide information.

To address these issues, the committee proposed additional funding to support local communities in maintaining accurate records and improving participation rates. They noted that many urban areas are experiencing a decline in participation, attributed to anxiety about sharing personal information with the government.

In conclusion, the committee underscored the urgency of proactive measures to ensure a successful Census in 2030. By enhancing local record-keeping and fostering community engagement, Massachusetts aims to accurately reflect its diverse population and secure necessary federal resources.