NEWS RELEASE

Committee on Energy and Commerce
Rep. John D. Dingell, Chairman

Dingell Commends NAB for Announcing Education Campaign on Digital Television Transition

Washington, D.C. – Rep. John D. Dingell (D-MI), Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, made the following statement today regarding the National Broadcasting Association’s (NAB) announcement that it will launch a nationwide campaign to educate consumers about the transition to digital television (DTV). After February 17, 2009, analog televisions not connected to a converter box, cable or satellite will be unable to receive digital signals.

“I am pleased that the broadcasting industry is launching a nationwide campaign to educate consumers about the approaching switch to digital television. It is reassuring to see the initiative taken by the broadcasting and cable industries to prepare consumers for the DTV transition – an event that will enhance our nation’s broadcasting system but, if left unadvertised, could cause widespread confusion and frustration. I am encouraged by the broadcasting industry’s early progress, and I hope it will prompt other industries to join in this effort.”

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