H.R.2947 - Deafblind Disabled Americans Table Approximation Act; Deafblind DATA Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2947, the Deafblind DATA Act, aims to improve the collection of data on deafblind individuals by the Bureau of the Census. The bill mandates the Bureau to cross-reference existing data from the American Community Survey to estimate the deafblind population. This would involve analyzing responses related to hearing and vision impairments.
The bill requires the Census Bureau to submit a report to Congress on the feasibility of publishing a table summarizing respondents who identify as both deaf and blind. Beginning in 2026, the Bureau would be required to publish this table annually, including demographic and economic characteristics, while protecting individual privacy.
The intended purpose is to provide a more accurate count of deafblind individuals to better address their unique needs and ensure they receive adequate support.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be improved data collection and reporting on the deafblind population in the United States. This enhanced data could lead to better allocation of resources and development of targeted support programs.
The publication of the annual table will provide valuable insights into the demographic and economic characteristics of this population. This information can be used by policymakers, advocacy groups, and service providers to improve services and outcomes for deafblind individuals.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a more accurate count of deafblind individuals in the United States.
- Facilitates better allocation of resources and development of targeted support programs.
- Improves access to information, communication, and social and emotional well-being for deafblind individuals.
- Informs policymakers and advocacy groups about the needs of the deafblind community.
- Enhances understanding of the demographic and economic characteristics of the deafblind population.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for privacy concerns, although the bill includes a limitation to prevent the publication of personally identifiable information.
- The accuracy of the data depends on the self-reporting of hearing and vision loss in the American Community Survey.
- The cost of implementing the data collection and reporting requirements may be a burden on the Census Bureau.
- The reliance on existing data may not capture the full complexity of deafblindness, as some individuals may not identify as deafblind or participate in the survey.
- The report on feasibility may reveal significant challenges in accurately counting this population.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). By improving data collection on a vulnerable population, the government can better address their needs and ensure equal opportunity. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights. Data collection activities by the government are generally permissible, provided they do not violate privacy rights or other protected freedoms. The requirement for a report to Congress also aligns with the legislative branch's oversight function (Article I, Section 1).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).