Beginning in 2008, the American Community Survey (ACS) will ask about marital events that have occurred in the last 12 months, the number of times a person has been married, and the year the most recent marriage occurred. The new data content can be combined with the demographic, economic and community data in the survey to analyze marriage and divorce rates, events, and transitions. Reasons for the additional questions are explained, including the use of the new data to analyze potential eligibility for program services and benefits and to assess behavioral changes resulting from policies and programs. An overview of the goals, structure, and unique attributes of the ACS is provided. 1 reference. (Author abstract modified)