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February 4, 2009

Rep. Susan Davis Votes to Give Americans More Time to Prepare for Digital TV

6 million not ready for switch from analog to digital signal

WASHINGTON – If the switch to digital television occurs as scheduled on February 17, the televisions of over 6 million Americans will not be able to receive a picture.  Congresswoman Susan Davis (D-San Diego) voted to postpone the switch to give those people more time to prepare for the transition from an analog to digital signal.

The new deadline is June 12, 2009.

“For many Americans, television is not just a source of entertainment.  It is a source of information, news, and emergency announcements,” said Davis.  “Leaving millions of people without access to this information is simply not acceptable.  We need to makes sure that as many people as possible are ready for the switch from analog to digital.”

In 2005, Congress directed all television stations to cease broadcasting their programming on an analog signal and switch to a digital one.  While a vast majority of Americans are set to receive the digital signal, there are still millions who receive an analog signal via an antenna on their television or roof. 

When the transition occurs, these people will not receive television broadcasting unless they get cable or satellite service or purchase a television with a digital tuner.  The other option is to purchase a converter box allowing their televisions to receive the digital signal.

To help pay for the cost of the converter box, the federal government is making coupons available.  However, more than 2 million people are currently on a waiting list for coupons. 

“This change in the timeframe will allow these people to obtain a coupon to help pay for the converter box so that they can receive the digital signal,” said Davis.

Once stations stop using the analog spectrum for broadcasting, it will be used by fire and police first responders. 

The House of Representatives approved the Senate bill, S. 352, on a vote of 264-158.  President Obama has signaled his intent to sign the bill.

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