Overview

There has been substantial growth in the number using government Web sites. Overall, 60% of government Web site users say such sites had improved their interactions with at least one level of government. While many government site users focus on their personal needs in dealing online with government agencies, there is abundant evidence that a new “e-citizenship” is taking hold as tens of millions use government Web sites to research public policy issues, send comments to public officials about policy choices, gather information to help them decide how to cast their votes, and participate in online lobbying campaigns. The environment, education, and health care top the list of issues for these cyber-activists.