The “digital divide,” a term much in the news during the campaign season, refers to the gap between technology haves and have-nots. While still the subject of much debate, politicians and policymakers are devising welfare plans to bridge this perceived gap.

Under President Clinton’s $2 billion technology plan, the government will siphon dollars from the pockets of taxpayers to offer high-tech companies tax incentives to donate computers, sponsor community technology centers, and provide technology training for workers. Vice-President Al Gore is floating a variety of proposals, including one that would offer low-income households a subsidy to cover the monthly cost of Internet access. Another piece of legislation under consideration would give Americans a tax credit of $500 to subsidize the cost of a new personal computer (PC). But all government plans to spread access are pushing against an open door.

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