Details of Democrats', Republicans'
high-tech planks
By Associated Press, 8/15/2000 07:47
The Democratic and Republican parties both include high-tech
planks in their platforms. Here is a look at key points the parties agree on,
and where they diverge:
Access to the Internet:
The Democratic platform suggests using AmeriCorps service
program volunteers to provide Internet training at schools, community centers
and libraries.
The Republican platform wants a ''creative, incentive-based,
public/private approach ... to urge high-tech philanthropy'' to create community
technology centers.
Taxing the Internet:
The Democrats do not mention extending the current three-year
ban on taxing the Internet with sales or access taxes.
Republicans call for a permanent ban on taxing Internet access
fees and for extending the moratorium.
Research and Development:
Democrats would double the current level of funding for
information technology and biomedical research. The platform also calls for a
permanent research and development tax credit.
Republicans want to increase research funding that will
''drive technological progress,'' such as funding for the National Institute of
Health and for the Defense Department. The party also supports agricultural
research, including biotech and biomass research, and calls for a permanent
research and development tax credit.
Education:
Democrats want to mandate computer literacy for children
graduating from the eighth grade, increased technology training for children and
completing the goal of wiring every classroom to the Internet.
Republicans also call for a mastery of computer skills in
elementary school and would give schools greater flexibility in how they use
their technology funds.
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