Methodological issues for vital rates and population estimates: 1997 OMB standards for data on race and ethnicity

A workshop in July 2000 explored research needed to address methodological challenges for population estimates and vital rates arising from the revision of the standards for Federal data on race and ethnicity; the use of different standards for Census 2000 and vital records during the implementation of the revised standards; and underlying differences in the collection of race and ethnicity data in censuses and surveys and in vital records. Matching studies were proposed to compare race and ethnicity reports in vital records and in Census 2000 or survey responses. Work on vital records might include exploring enhanced collection of race and ethnicity data and documenting State vital statistics reporting mandates and practices. Key work on sources of error includes identifying, quantifying, and reporting on bias and random errors related to race and ethnicity in population estimates and vital rates. Also needed are comparisons of Census Bureau and State population estimates and more frequent tests of the accuracy of population estimates and projections. Studies on racial and ethnic identity were proposed to examine changes in reporting over time and to explore origins of racial and ethnic identities. More information on these issues should be developed for technical and nontechnical audiences.