Reply #40: Census records are kept sealed for 72 years...

[rasputin1952]

The vast majority of people searching records are family members looking for ties to the past, they are not seeking info on others, w/the exception of famous figures...ie, presidents, generals/admirals, inventors, writers and the like.

I believe they should be open for individual inspection, we all like to know where we came from, it has a lot to do with who we are today. The Census is a great starting point for people that are seeking their roots. Besides...years from now, a descendant of one of us may wonder about how their lineage came through all of this...why deny them their lineage?

The Census is incredibly important for the number of Representatives we have, the amount of funding that goes out and a very real way to keep track of trends that affect the entire nation. There is a possibility that out here in Nebraska we could lose a seat in the House. Populations move and demographics affect the nation as a whole.