Jan 28, 2009 4:30 pm US/Eastern
House Votes Against Delaying Digital TV Switch
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
Surprising news from Washington Wednesday as the House of Representatives rejected the proposal to delay the digital TV transition. Unless lawmakers can reach an agreement, the switch will happen as planned next month.
For months we've been warning you that the switch from analog to digital was on its way, but recently, there's been a push to postpone the changeover until June. As of Wednesday afternoon, though, February 17th is still the date.
The House voted down a measure that had been passed by the Senate to move the switch.
Republican Joe Barton of Texas says a delay is not necessary.
"It's a solution looking for a problem," he told fellow members of the House.
Republicans say only a small percentage of American Households aren't ready for the transition.
Democrats disagree.
"More than six million American households that have over the air analog dependent television sets are completely unprepared for the transition. Those homes will lose service," said Representative Rick Boucher, Democrat from Virginia.
Several weeks ago, the government program that offered 40 dollar coupons to families to purchase digital converter boxes ran out of money. Both parties agree more funding is necessary.
Ernestine Smith's coupons expired before she could use them. She's hoping something will be done to help her too.
"I don't think there should have been an expiration because it was during the holidays and some times you don't have the extra money," said Smith.
This still isn't a done deal. Congress may still vote to postpone the switch. In the meantime, if you still haven't applied for a coupon, you need to get your name on the waiting list now. You can call
1-888-DTV 2009 to request your coupon.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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