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Reps. Anderson, Rodne encourage constituents to
prepare for all-digital television transition
Next year's conversion to all-digital TV format
may require families to plan ahead
Television viewers using free analog, or antenna, service will be required to switch to
all-digital broadcast service by Feb. 17, 2009.
State Reps.
Glenn Anderson and
Jay Rodne
encourage constituents to plan ahead and take advantage of Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) assistance as the transition date moves
closer.
By law, next February will
mark the end of full-power television stations broadcasting in an analog
format. In less than 10 months, all broadcasts will be in digital
format. The FCC notes that one benefit of all digital broadcasting will
be to free up air frequencies for emergency services, such as fire and
police.
"I want to make sure
consumers, especially low- or fixed-income individuals and English
language learners, are aware of financial and over-the-phone assistance.
My goal is to ensure everyone understands how the switch will affect them and what steps
they may need to take," Anderson, R-Fall City, said. "In addition to
watching their favorite programs, many folks rely on television for
dangerous weather event warnings and government emergency notices. It's
vital families that need help with the transition have the tools
and information now to begin to prepare."
"This is an important
change for many television viewers and we want to educate them on what
to expect. If families or individuals are eligible for assistance, we
want to make sure they are aware of their options,” Rodne, R-North Bend,
said. "We encourage constituents to contact us if they have any
questions or concerns."
Both 5th District
lawmakers want constituents to be aware that financial assistance for
the digital converter boxes will be available for families that qualify.
Between Jan. 1, 2008, and
March 31, 2009, all U.S. households will be eligible to request up to
two coupons, worth $40 each, to be used toward the purchase of up to two
digital-to-analog converter boxes. The National Telecommunications and
Information Administration has responsibility for administering the
coupon program. More information on the coupon program can be found
online at www.dtv2009.gov.
Consumers needing
assistance and additional information on the digital television
transition can visit the FCC Web site at
www.dtv.gov or call the toll-free hotline at 1-888-225-5322.
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For more information, contact:
Bobbi Cussins, Public
Information Officer - (360) 786-7252
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