Recent surveys show that 28% of households in the state do not have a computer or are not connected to the Internet, according to the state.
"This is all about expanding access to the technology that citizens need in order to be successful in the 21st century marketplace," Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm said. "This program helps position Michigan for the new marketplace without expanding government spending."
In the next five years, 85% of all new jobs will require computer skills. Citizens who use a computer at home are more likely to have the skills needed for employment and will find it easier to learn new work skills.
While the MiPC program is backed by state government, it is not a government funded program, meaning no taxpayer dollars are being used to fund the effort. Instead, the Michigan Department of Information Technology (MDIT) and Department of Management and Budget (DMB) are currently seeking bids from companies to provide packages through the MiPC program. The process for competitive bidding started today.
Michigan residents surveyed cited cost as a major barrier for not having a computer at home. MiPC will drive costs down and allow citizens to be able to buy computer packages by phone, at retail stores and online. Other countries have implemented programs like this, but according to a release from the state, Michigan is the first state to implement a citizen purchase program.
It is estimated that the MiPC program will place 100,000 computers in Michigan households in the first year alone. The estimated cost is about $1 a day over the period of one to three years, depending on the type of package that is purchased. Citizens will be able to start purchasing computers through the MiPC program near the end of May, which is when more information will be provided as to final costs and how the purchases can be made.
Reader Comment
Where's the latest info?
Comment Text:
Your story says more info will be provided at the end of May. Today is May 23rd, but it does not say how to find out the latest info. What can I do? I recently got laid off and need a computer to look for a job. Please help.
