WASHINGTON — Recent data released by the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau showed that the nation’s official poverty rate in 2010 was 15.1 percent, an increase from 14.3 percent in 2009. There were 46.2 million people living in poverty in 2010 and the rate has increased annually for three years in a row. 

In Michigan, a substantial rate increase in poverty may be occurring according to the Detroit News. In 2010, 15.5 percent of Michiganders were in poverty, up from 14 percent in 2009, according to another study by the Current Population Survey. Michigan’s overall rate is 20th. 

Stats believed to be more accurate at the state level are expected to come out next week from the annual American Community Survey of 3 million nationwide. Last year, the ACS revealed a poverty rate of 16.5 percent, a higher rate than was previously reported by the CPS.