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Poll Shows Continuing Decline in "Y2K" ConcernSlight Rise Reported in Water, Food Stockpiling Plans
With only nine days until the New Year, Americans report a continued downward trend in their concern and worry levels regarding Year 2000-related computer problems, according to the fifth in a year-long series of Gallup polls. The nationwide telephone poll, conducted in partnership with the National Science Foundation (NSF) and USA Today, surveyed 1,011 adults between December 16 and 19. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points. "These poll results show one more time that a well-informed and educated public is able to increase its understanding of the consequences of 'Y2K' and make informed decisions for themselves and their families," said George Strawn, NSF's Computer Networking Division Director. "With the year 2000 now staring us in the face, this poll is further evidence that as the public's knowledge and awareness of 'Y2K' rises over the past year, its level of worry, fear and concern falls," Strawn added. The NSF-commissioned polls began in December 1998. Polls were also conducted in March, August and November 1999. All five NSF-commissioned polls ask the same questions in order to discover trends or track changes in the public's attitudes regarding "Y2K." Nearly 90% of those polled this time say they have seen or heard "some or a great deal" about the Year 2000 computer issue, or "Y2K," which arises from computers that are improperly programmed to comprehend a computer's date field correctly. In a new question added to the December poll and not asked in previous polls, three out of four Americans say they will make sure the gas tank in their car, truck or other automobile is full on New Year's Eve. Other significant findings from the December poll include:
Despite previous media accounts that some Americans are preparing for food or water delivery systems to fail, the December 1999 poll found:
NSF is an independent federal agency with an annual budget of about $3.9 billion, primarily used in support of fundamental research in all fields of science and engineering, as well as wide-ranging education programs. NSF funds reach all 50 states, through grants to more than 2,000 universities and institutions nationwide. NSF receives more than 50,000 requests for funding annually, including at least 30,000 new proposals. -NSF- NOTE TO ALL MEDIA: For copies of the December, 1999 poll questions and response rates, call Bill Line at NSF's Office of Legislative and Public Affairs, (703) 306-1070, or view the poll results online. |