The U.S. Census Bureau seeks comment on extending the Current Population Survey, without changes, by December 3, 2025. It is a follow-up from an information collection notice in the summer.
According to the new Federal Register Notice, the “demographic information collected in the CPS provides a unique set of data on selected characteristics for the civilian non-institutional population.” The Bureau uses “this data in conjunction with other data, particularly the monthly labor force data, as well as periodic supplement data. We also use this data independently for internal analytic research and for evaluation of other surveys.” The Bureau also needs “these data to correctly control estimates of other characteristics to the proper proportions of age, sex, race, and ethnicity.”
On top of demographic, the Current Population Survey includes “questions needed to make contact with the household,” such as “introductions, determining the correct respondent, and verifying the address. These questions are referred to as the “Front” questions. Also involved in maintaining contact with the household are the “Back” questions. These questions collect telephone numbers, best time to contact, and thank the respondent for their cooperation. These questions are needed to do the interview and maintain contact with the household throughout the survey.”
The FRN noted that this survey “will continue to comply with requirements from Statistical Policy Directive No. 15 Federal Race and Ethnicity Data Standards (SPD 15).”
- Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Current Population Survey, Basic Demographics https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/11/03/2025-19761/agency-information-collection-activities-submission-to-the-office-of-management-and-budget-omb-for
