[Genealib] Census inquiry

[Sandy Day]

Hi
Today a co worker asked me a couple questions regarding the federal census. This prompted me to dig a bit to make sure I had given the proper answer. According to NARA the 72 year restriction rule became effective in 1952. From what I gather 1950 was the first year that the census records were microfilmed. Two years later discussion was held on statutory restrictions expiring after 50 years. "the Archivist" offered to extend census retriction before Congress and it was determined that it should be 72 years instead of 50 years. 
Why 72 years you may ask? The answer given was "longest extension that would open the 1880 census immediately (1880 + 72 years=1952)
An announcement was made on the last page that stated: 
NARA lacked capability to preserve miages
Solution: Computer Output Microfilm (COM)
New schedule: images temporary, COM permanent
(and the last statement)
IN 2072 NARA WILL DIGITIZE MICROFILM IF
DESIRED (Bold was my contribution) 

Gee we all know that there is technology today to digitize microfilm but who has the $$ to do this? 
I guess our children or grandchildren will have to deal with this issue!

I also checked Wikipedia on U S census and found quite a bit of good info.
Think about this fact-the 2010 census will not be available for public inspection until April 1 2082!

If there are any errors in my interpretation please let me know!!

I think that is where I will stop this train of thought!

Sandy Day
Genealogy Librarian
Schiappa Library
Steubenville OH
I found all this by googling my question and found 14 pages from NARA. 
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