WASHINGTON—U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today issued the following statement on the National Cable & Telecommunications Association’s $200 million English and Spanish consumer education campaign to promote the transition to digital television on Feb. 17, 2009.
“I applaud the National Cable & Telecommunications Association’s $200 million English and Spanish consumer education efforts to inform the public about the transition to digital television on Feb. 17, 2009. This is exactly the cooperation needed to help the public become more aware of their options for transitioning way in advance.
“I encourage all Americans to begin seeking out information about the transition to digital television.” Background The Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005 requires full-power television stations to cease analog broadcasts and switch to digital after Feb. 17, 2009. The Act also authorizes Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to create the Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program. Digital television provides consumers with a clearer picture, more programming and frees up much needed spectrum for advanced wireless broadband services and interoperable communications among emergency first responders.
Between now and Feb. 17, 2009, consumers receiving their programming “over the air” will need to either purchase a converter; subscribe to cable or satellite service; or purchase a television with a digital tuner to continue to watch TV after that date.
More information about the Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program may be found online at www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon.
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
