WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Senate last night approved legislation championed by Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) to fund education efforts surrounding the digital television transition (DTV) scheduled to occur on February 17, 2009.

 

The DTV Transition Assistance Act allows the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to spend funds on education programs for residents of rural and remote areas along with other groups who may not be prepared for the transition.

 

“This measure will help educate residents of rural and remote areas about the upcoming DTV transition and converter box program,” said Senator Stevens. “Many Alaskans depend on over-the-air broadcasts, and we must ensure that they are prepared for this transition next year.”

 

The bill also implements a program to reimburse low-power television stations common in the Bush for equipment upgrades needed to meet DTV standards.

 

“In Alaska, low-power television stations are often a community’s only broadcasting source,” said Senator Stevens.  “This legislation makes available federal funding for transition costs and creates a reasonable time frame for these stations to make the switch to digital signals.” 

 

Alaskans are encouraged to call Senator Stevens’ offices for information on the transition and instructions on how to 60 obtain a coupon for a converter box.

Anchorage: (907) 271-5915
Fairbanks: (907) 456-0261

Juneau: (907) 586-7400

Kenai: (907) 283-5808

Ketchikan: (907) 225-6880