DTV Transition

As you may know, on February 17, 2009, full power broadcast stations will stop broadcasting in analog format and will continue broadcasting in digital only.  This change, known as the DTV transition, was mandated by Congress and will provide many benefits to the public, including more spectrum for use by public safety (policy, fire and emergency rescue workers).  This transition will require many consumers with analog television sets who receive only free over-the air television through either a rooftop broadcast antenna or "rabbit ears" to take action in order to continue to receive a television signal.

We are concerned that the transition may disproportionately affect your organization's constituents because they are more likely to have an older, analog television, less likely to be connected to cable or satellite, and less likely to be able to go out and buy a digital TV.  Consumers with an analog television who not connected to cable or satellite will need a converter box to continue to watch television after the transition.  Every household is entitled to two $40 coupons to help purchase up to two converter boxes through a program administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).  Coupons may be requested from www.dtv2009.gov or by calling 888-DTV-2009.

The FCC is currently reaching out to organizations across the country to support our efforts to inform consumers about the DTV transition.  Specifically, we are requesting that your organization help us by:

1) Adding a link to your organization's website to www.dtv.gov. Please click on this link http://www.dtv.gov/dtvlogos.html for instructions on how to link to the DTV website.

2) Running an article about the DTV transition in your organization's publications. We can provide copy discussing the DTV transition for your publication.

3) Providing educational hand outs (supplied by the FCC) on the DTV transition and the Lifeline/Link-up programs to your constituents.

4) Posting information about the DTV transition on any list serv your organization uses to disseminate information;

5) Letting us know if there are any conferences/conventions sponsored by your organization that the FCC could participate in for DTV outreach purposes.

6)  Letting us know of other consumer-oriented or grass roots organizations in your state you think the FCC should contact about DTV.

Please feel free to call my office at (202) 418-0429 or contact me by e-mail at sherille.ismail@fcc.gov. I look forward to working with you and welcome your suggestions.

Sincerely,

Sherille Ismail

Senior Counsel

Office of Strategic Planning and Policy Analysis

Federal Communications Commission

(202) 418-0429

sherille.ismail@fcc.gov