WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, voiced support for a smooth digital television transition.  Broadcasters are mandated to switch to digital television (DTV) signals from the analog signals that are currently being used by February 17, 2009.  The DTV transition will not only provide clearer pictures and increased programming, it will also free up airwaves for emergency first responders and new wireless communications.

A television connected to cable, satellite or other pay television service will not require a television converter box and will continue to receive broadcast signals after February 17, 2009. To assist Americans, applications for digital converter box coupons will be made available at all of Senator Stevens’ offices and through his website at http://stevens.senate.gov/dtv.  

Senator Stevens ensured that the $1.5 billion converter box coupon program was created to assist households that continue to use their analog television sets to receive over-the-air signals after February 17, 2009.  The program will allow U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, which can be applied toward the cost of two eligible converter boxes.  Senator Stevens continues to work with retailers to ensure that converter boxes are available for purchase online as well as in stores.

WHAT:          The digital television (DTV) transition is scheduled for February 17, 2009.  Converter box coupon applications are available from January 1, 2008 until March 31, 2009. There are four ways consumers can request a coupon:  (1) Apply online at www.dtv2009.gov. (2) Call the coupon program’s 24-hour hot line, 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009), TTY 1-877-530-2634.  (3) Mail a coupon application to P.O. Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000.  (4) Fax a coupon application to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632).