Response to NGLTF Comments

The Office of Management and Budget received comments from National Gay and Lesbian Task Force regarding the 2014 Census Test, as proposed in the March 31, 2014 edition of the Federal Register, document number 2014-07061.

The Bureau shares and agrees with the comments on striving to adapt and collect accurate data on families and persons.

Recommendation 1. Include LGBT Cultural Competency Training in Field Staff Training for the 2014 Census Test The Census Bureau strives to collect reliable and accurate data, as reported by respondents. The training development looking toward 2020 and for the 2014 Census Test is underway. We have added wording to the training on reading questions as worded, recording what respondents say accurately, with respect, and without judgment. We have also included such wording when specifically asking the sex question and the relationship question. Our overall approach is to emphasize and repeatedly reinforce with our enumerators that they are to respectfully accept responses as given.

Recommendation 2. Use the Sexual Orientation Measure Currently Being Utilized on the National Health Interview Survey on Future Versions of the Census

and

Recommendation 3. Develop a Plan to Include Gender Identity Questions on the Census and Other Data Collection Instruments

In response to both Recommendation 2 and Recommendation 3, the content for the 2014 Census Test is final. However, the Census Bureau will continue to work with OMB and other Federal agencies to examine the changing requirements and data recommended for program implementation. The data collection instruments may vary and be implemented through current surveys or in censuses, as you noted and recommend for future discussion.