Assemblyman Charles D. Lavine is reminding residents April 1 is Census Day and the short, 10 question forms they will receive by mail must be postmarked and mailed by the April 1 deadline. Residents who fail to respond can expect a call or visit from a census taker. 

"Every resident's participation is not only required by law, it's vital to our community's future. The results of the national population tally decide the allocation of more than $400 billion in federal funds each year – money our community depends on for schools, hospitals, roadways, fire and police stations and more, " Lavine said. "Without doing your part by filling out the census forms, our infrastructure could suffer and critical funding for health care, day care and job training could dry up."

"What's more, census data are used to determine government representation. An accurate headcount ensures that your needs and interests are on the radar of both Albany and Washington so that our community will get the aid and attention it deserves," Lavine added. "And with the new, shorter questionnaires, participating couldn't be easier. Ten minutes' time promises 10 years of reward."

Despite the myriad benefits, however, there remain those worried that their responses could be used against them. But they needn't fear, said Lavine, as the bureau maintains the strictest of privacy policies. Federal law (Title 13, U.S. Code) prohibits the bureau from sharing personal information with anyone, be it the Internal Revenue Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services or any other government agency.

"With nothing to lose and everything to gain, there's no excuse not to participate," he said. "Fill out your form and send it in as soon as you receive it. If you would like more information on the 2010 census, please call my district office at 676-0050 or e-mail me at lavinec@assembly.state.ny.us." 

New York State Assemblyman Charles D. Lavine represents the 13th A.D., which encompasses Glen Cove, Sea Cliff, Glenwood Landing, Bayville and Syosset, among other areas. He is also a longtime Glen Cove resident.