We're approaching census time again. This one is a divisive one. mostly due to the inclusion of Acorn into the information gathering process. A lot of people just don't trust them, nor should they. A representative from minnesota, michelle Bachmann says she will redfuse to answer any questions other than number of household members. That is the purpose of the census anyway, isn't it? Not to be gathering up other personal information. The constitution call for the census to be taken, to determine the size of the population. nothing more. nothing about your financial situation, voter preferences, none of that. The law states that anyone over the age of 18 that refuses to answer" any of the questions" can be fined up to $500. what really are our personal requirements on the census?  According to the law congress is ressponsible for gathering this info.  Art 1 section2 of the constitution states " An enumeration shall be made within 3 years of the frst meeting of congress, and within every subsequent 10 years in such manner as the law directs"   the original fine for non compliance was $20.00. As it turns out, the "law direct" is actually title 13 of the US code.  And since 1980 it says "In 1980 and every ten years take a decinnial census in such form and content as the secretary determines, including the use of sampling procedures and special surveys.  The secretary is authorized to obtain such other census info as necessary".   So, the census questions are truly legal.  And by law, we are expected to comply.  It looks like Ms Bachmann has mis interpreted the law.  Although the constitution nor us code mentions Acorn participation, I would think with their history and record, anyone refusing to answer anything but the basic info would have a very good case in court on non-compliance with the other questions.  I can't wait to see the results.