For Immediate Release: January 25, 1999

STATEMENT BY TONY COELHO, PRESIDENTIAL CO-CHAIR, U.S. CENSUS MONITORING BOARD

We're disappointed, but the Supreme Court has spoken. Sampling for reapportionment is out unless Congress changes the law. Still, we're pleased that the decision preserves the prerogative of using statistical methods to adjust the undercount for federal funds distribution and redistricting. I believe Dr. Prewitt should immediately study the details of this decision in light of the dress rehearsal results before deciding on a, final operational plan. Hopefully this political controversy can be resolved once and for all in the very near future and the career professionals at the Census Bureau can be left alone to do their jobs.

Contact: Estela B. Mendoza, 301-457-9903