Executive Order 99 (2009)

The Virginia Complete Count Committee

Importance of the Issue

The United States Constitution mandates a decennial count of all people living in the United States and its territories. This monumental task is one that affects the distribution of approximately $400 billion dollars from the federal government to state and local governments as well as recognized tribal groups. It also affects the redistricting of legislative districts and reapportionment of seats that each state has at the U.S. House of Representatives. The 2010 Census is quickly approaching and all stakeholders should collectively support the efforts of the U.S. Census Bureau. The Governor’s Complete Count Committee will maximize such efforts.

Historically, the U.S. Census Bureau has experienced low survey response rates from many communities across the Commonwealth. The Governor’s Complete Count Committee was created to improve the participation and representation of all Virginians. It will consist of key community members and will represent the many geographic regions and diverse communities in the Commonwealth. The Committee will operate as a central conduit of information and facilitate the sharing of ideas and community resources regarding the 2010 Census. These efforts will improve collaboration between the Commonwealth and the U.S. Census Bureau and encourage all stakeholders to actively prepare for the 2010 Census

Establishing the Committee

By virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor under Article V of the Constitution of Virginia and under the laws of the Commonwealth, including but not limited to Section 2.2.-134 of the Code of Virginia, and subject always to my continuing and ultimate authority and responsibility to act in such matters, I hereby establish the Virginia Complete Count Committee

The Committee is comprised of 29 members appointed by the Governor- many of whom are chairs of local complete count committees, representatives from organizations like the League of Women Voters, the Baptist General Convention, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Virginia Supportive Housing, the NAACP, the Urban League and leaders from various minority communities and such other members as may be appointed by the Governor. All Committee members shall serve without compensation.

The Committee shall have the following responsibilities:

1. Help ensure an accurate 2010 Census count in the Commonwealth of Virginia
2. Use their knowledge of the communities in the Commonwealth to share this message with as many individuals as possible
3. Share ideas and information that will benefit local Complete Count Committees and Community Partners.
4. Encourage residents to complete and mail back their census questionnaires
5. Identify organizations in the community that can provide space for Questionnaire Assistance Centers
6. Encourage organizations to include 2010 Census on the agenda of their meetings, workshops or conferences

This Executive Order shall be effective upon its signing and shall remain in full force and effect until December 31, 2010, unless sooner amended or rescinded by further executive order.

Given under my hand and under the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia this 22nd day of October 2009.

/s/ Timothy M. Kaine, Governor

Attest:

/s/ Secretary of the Commonwealth