News

January 27, 2009

harkin statement regarding passage of dtv delay legislation

Senator co-sponsored bill that will move digital conversion deadline to June 12

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) applauded Senate passage of a bill that will delay the upcoming transition to digital television (DTV) for four months to June 12, 2009.  The current transition is scheduled to take place on February 17, 2009.  A recent survey by Consumer Reports showed that 63 percent of Americans are unclear about how the transition will affect them.

“Many Americans are confused and intimidated by the transition to DTV, and for that reason alone we need a bit more time to make sure folks have the correct information to make the switch,” said Harkin. “And this isn’t just about home entertainment, those who don’t successfully make the switch will lose access to the Emergency Alert System and AMBER Alert messages. This delay will help those who need a little extra time, especially older Americans and those who live in rural communities.”

“This bill will also allow the federal government to fix the problems with the DTV coupon program,” continued Harkin. “More than two million households are on a waiting list to receive coupons, and even with additional resources, it may be impossible to fill the backlog of coupon orders before next month. Our bill allows people with expired coupons to re-apply for new coupons and gives the new administration time to find more dollars to ensure consumers get the help they need.”     

Last summer, Harkin sent a letter to the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA) requesting that they reissue expired coupons used to supplement the price of a converter box needed to make the switch from analog TV to Digital TV (DTV).  The coupons are valid for up to 90 days, however unavoidable reasons have prevented many individuals from using prior to the expiration date. Reasons include a lack of boxes in stock at local retailers or an extended stay in the hospital.

Harkin’s staff in Iowa has been touring the state to provide information about how to successfully make the change from analog to digital TV. 

Details of the legislation can be found here.

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