Race and Hispanic Origin Data: A Comparison of Results From the Census 2000 Supplementary Survey and Census 2000

The American Community Survey (ACS) is designed to replace the decennial census “long form” (Alexander 2000). It is being promoted as a more accurate, timely, and reliable source of data on the social, economic, and housing characteristics of the United States population and housing stock. When fully implemented, the ACS will sample about 3 million addresses each year, the largest survey during the intercensal years. Results from the ACS will provide current information on the entire population down to census tracts, allowing policy makers, academic researchers, government agencies, private businesses, and the public access to information on the changing condition of the United States in a timely manner.