Federal law mandates broadcasters cease analog signal Feb. 17, 2009

GRAND RAPIDS – On February 17, 2009 television stations around the country must cease broadcasting on the analog spectrum and switch to higher quality digital broadcasting. Congressman Vernon J. Ehlers spoke to constituents in Grand Rapids today about the reasons for the switch and what consumers must know to be prepared.

“The most common question I hear from constituents is, ‘How does this affect me?’ The answer is actually fairly simple,” said Congressman Ehlers. “Cable or satellite subscribers won’t need to do anything to continue enjoying programming after February 17. People only must take action if they get their TV signal from over-the-air broadcast through set-top ‘rabbit ears’ or a rooftop antenna on an older TV that does not have a built-in digital tuner.”

People who use an antenna to watch over-the-air broadcast and do not own a TV with a built-in digital tuner may apply for up to two coupons worth $40 to pay for an analog-to-digital converter box. Federal law requires that all televisions sold after March 17, 2007 must have a built-in digital tuner.

People may apply for converter box coupons by visiting www.dtv2009.gov and filling out a simple application form. They may also request one by calling 1-888-DTV-2009, faxing 1-888-DTV-4ME2, or mailing a request to the following address:

P.O. Box 2000

Portland, OR 97208

Converter box coupons include a list of nearby participating retailers and a list of eligible converter boxes. If all TVs in a household are connected to cable or satellite service, a converter box is not needed.