Congress Postpones Digital Television Transition to June 12th

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-MI) voted for a one-time delay in the date of the analog-to-digital television transition. S. 352, the Digital TV Delay Act was approved today by the House of Representatives. To prevent millions of television sets from going dark on February 18^th, 2009, the bill would postpone the digital transition to June 12^th, 2009.

“More than 5,100 households in the 5^th Congressional District are waiting for coupons to buy digital converter boxes,” said Kildee. “Without an extension, those households in addition to millions more over-the-air sets across America will go dark. It is essential that we extend the digital transition deadline to allow the coupon program to catch up to the tremendous demand.”

There are 5,128 households in the 5^th Congressional District of Michigan currently waiting on coupons to purchase digital converter boxes before their televisions go dark. The Commerce Department estimates that more than 2 million households nationwide are currently on a waiting list to receive a coupon to purchase a digital converter box necessary for older, analog televisions receiving over-the-air signals to display digital signals.

The Nielson Company estimates that 7 million households will lose all television reception if the February deadline remains in place. Those who are most likely to be left out are also those who are most vulnerable; seniors and low-income families who cannot afford to purchase a new television or to subscribe to a cable television service provider.

In the event of an emergency, Americans often refer to local television stations for public safety announcements and the most current information. We must not leave the most vulnerable Americans exposed in such an event.

The Digital TV Delay Act is supported by a wide range of groups, including public safety organizations, civil rights and consumer groups, the National Association of Broadcasters, and wireless providers.

The application deadline for a converter box coupon has also been extended to July 31^st, 2009. To apply for a coupon, please visit: https://www.dtv2009.gov/.