clearance package part B

EMERGENCY CLEARANCE REQUEST

U.S. Department of Commerce

U.S. Census Bureau

Supplemental Questions related to the effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on businesses to be added to the following collections:

Manufacturers’ Shipments, Inventories & Orders Survey (M3) (0607-0008)

Building Permits Survey (0607-0094)

Monthly Wholesale Trade Survey (0607-0190)

Monthly Retail Surveys (0607-0717)

Quarterly Services Survey (0607-0907)

April 2, 2020

Supporting Statement Section B

1. Universe and Respondent Selection

The COVID-19 questions will be asked of all respondents to the regular monthly/quarterly collection of each survey. There will be no special or separate sample of respondents that will receive the questions.

Please refer to the most recently approved ICR for each survey detailing information about the universe and respondent selection.

2. Procedures for Collecting Information

The COVID-19 questions will be collected in the same manner as the surveys on which they will appear.

Please refer to the most recently approved ICR for each survey detailing information about procedures for collecting the information.

3. Methods to maximize Response

The COVID-19 questions will utilize the same methods to maximize responses as the surveys on which they will appear.

Please refer to the most recently approved ICR for each survey detailing information about methods to maximize response.

4. Tests of Procedures or Methods

Due to timing constraints, we were unable to conduct formal testing of the COVID-19 questions. However, the questions have been reviewed by Census Bureau staff who are experts in the field of questionnaire design. The process for expert review in lieu of in-field expert review was approved by the Methodology and Standards Council at the Census Bureau.

Please refer to the most recently approved ICR for each survey detailing information on testing of procedures or methods.

5. Contacts for Statistical Aspects and Data Collection

Stephanie Studds, Chief, Economic Indicators Division (202-631-2531) may be contacted regarding the statistical and data collection aspects of the COVID-19 questions.

Please refer to the most recently approved ICR for each survey for contacts for statistical aspects and data collection.

List of Attachments

1. Screenshots of COVID-19 Questions on Survey Instruments

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