The results of the test indicated the information requested is not easily collected. Less than 50 percent of the surveyed companies responded. More than three fourths of the companies willing to provide reasons for non-response listed the voluntary nature of the survey as the reason for not filing.

The Census Bureau’s experience collecting confidential information and its sterling reputation for protecting the confidentiality of that information were not enough to obtain the information on a voluntary basis. There is, however, some reason for hope in that only a small number of the companies not filing indicated the data were not available.

The Bureau of Justice Statistics and the Bureau of the Census are now re-thinking their options. It may be possible to redesign the collection instrument in ways that improve response. But, there are serious doubts about the potential success of such efforts without mandatory collection authority. The future of this collection effort is unknown.