August 10, 2009: The Senate will convene at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 10 for a pro forma session only. Following the pro forma session, the Senate will adjourn under the provisions of H. Con. Res. 172, the adjournment resolution, until 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8. On Tuesday, September 8, the Senate will convene at 2:00 p.m. and will be in a period of morning business until 4:30 p.m. with Senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each. Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S. 1023, the Travel Promotion Act.
Press Release
of
Senator Johnson
As DTV Deadline Nears, Johnson Reminds South Dakotans That Resources are Still Available
Contact: Julianne Fisher, 202-224-1638
Washington, DC—As the deadline for the digital television switchover nears, U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) today reminded South Dakotans that resources are still available to help them make the transition from analog signals. The federal government is continuing to assist every household in the United States receiving analog TV broadcasts to make the change, which will take effect by June 12th. “While the conversion process has not been a seamless one, resources are available to make the process easier for South Dakotans,” Johnson said. “The government is providing online information as the deadline nears, and coupons are still available that will help offset the cost of this switch during these tough economic times.” By the June 12th deadline, all television networks will have ceased broadcasting analog signals as part of a Congressionally-mandated change in television broadcasting. South Dakotans relying on rooftop or indoor antennas will then need to purchase digital-to-analog converters to continue to receive television reception. The government is currently offering every household two $40 coupons that can be used to purchase two separate converters in preparation for the change. The coupons will decrease the cost of the devices, which cost approximately $40-$80 each. Coupons are available by calling 1-888-388-2009 or by visiting www.dtv2009.gov. The coupons expire 90 days after they are issued, so it is recommended that they are requested shortly before households are prepared to purchase the converters. The switch to digital, which was mandated by Congress as part of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, will also free up bandwidth for new public safety communications services and make it easier for first responders to communicate with one another. Subscribers to cable, satellite or television services provided by a telephone company will not be affected by this change.
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