On February 28th Governor Charlie Crist announced a statewide census committee. The committee consists of forty-five members including the Chairman, Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty.

The 2010 Sunshine Census Committee has representation from numerous groups and organizations except one - Florida's veterans.

The state of Florida, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, has over 1.8 million veterans. This does not include those serving in the active military, Florida National Guard and reserves. I first contacted the Governor's office on February 29th by phone and via e-mail on March 2nd and asked if the lack of veteran representation was intentional or an oversight. To date I have not received a reply.

Why is this important? It is important because it may affect the amount of money received from the Department of Veterans Affairs to support our local veterans, the number of VA clinics built, and other services provided. It is in the best interest of Florida to have an accurate census of our veterans, a growing demographic in the state.

It is interesting to note that numerous other groups are represented such as Haitians, Filipinos (two members), Hispanics and Latinos. There are also many organizations represented including business, governmental, non-profit, religious and special interest. But not one single veterans organization.

I have sent a third request to Governor Crist's office. I will report on the results, if any.