Over Two Million Households on DTV Coupon Waiting List
As of February 3, 2009, the Commerce Department's estimates that over two million households are currently on the waiting list for over 3.6 million converter box coupons. These boxes are required to continue receiving over-the-air television broadcasts after the February 17, 2009, digital television transition occurs. The DTV Delay Act, which will be considered by the House this week, would extend the transition date until June 12, 2009. This legislation has broad support, including public safety organizations, civil rights and consumer groups, the National Association of Broadcasters and wireless providers.
On February 4, Chairman Waxman and Subcommittee Chairman Boucher sent a letter to their colleagues with an updated list of households on the waiting list, organized by congressional district.
The following organizations wrote to Chairman Waxman in support of delaying the digital television transition:
Letter to Congressional Colleagues from Chairmen Waxman and Pallone (February 4, 2009).