Digital TV Transition: Information on the Implementation of the Converter Box Subsidy Program and Consumer Participation in the Program Congressional Testimony

The Digital TV Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005 requires all full-power TV stations in the U.S. to cease analog broadcasting after Feb. 17, 2009, known as the digital TV transition. The Nat. Telecomm. and Info. Admin. (NTIA) is responsible for implementing a subsidy program to provide households with up to two $40 coupons toward the purchase of converter boxes. In this testimony, which is principally based on a recently issued report, the author examines: (1) what consumer education efforts have been undertaken by private and fed. stakeholders; and (2) how effective NTIA has been in implementing the converter box subsidy program, and to what extent consumers are participating in the program. Illustrations.