Hinds Today

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith from Mississippi has joined as an original cosponsor of a legislative proposal aimed at removing federal penalties for those who opt not to participate in an annual government survey. The proposed legislation, known as the Freedom from Government Surveys Act (S.265), was introduced by Senator James Risch of Idaho.

The bill seeks to make participation in the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) voluntary and remove fines for non-compliance. Hyde-Smith expressed her support, stating, "Mississippians, like all American citizens, should not be bullied by the federal government into sharing personal details they choose to keep private." She emphasized that privacy is a fundamental right and not a criminal act.

Risch also commented on the matter, saying, "It is unacceptable for the federal government to punish Idahoans for protecting their personal, private details from intrusive surveys." He highlighted that his bill aims to eliminate what he described as burdensome fines on individuals exercising their right to privacy.

The ACS is conducted annually by the U.S. Census Bureau and targets approximately 3.5 million households nationwide. Current regulations can lead to persistent follow-ups and potential fines for those who do not complete the survey, which requests detailed demographic and personal information.

Other senators supporting this bill include Mike Crapo of Idaho, Steve Daines of Montana, and Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming. The legislation has been sent to the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee for consideration.