DINNIMAN: DIGITAL CONVERTER BOX APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: JON EWALD WEST CHESTER - State Senator Andy Dinniman announced today that applications are available to receive coupons for a free television converter box, as the national transition to an all-digital television format approaches. “The switch to digital is less than a year away. It will mean clearer pictures and sound, more channels and an overall better viewing experience. More importantly, it will also free up frequencies for our emergency responders,” Dinniman. “My staff will be glad to assist you in signing up for a free digital converter box, as well as answer any questions you may have about the conversion.” Dinniman noted that televisions connected to cable, satellite or other pay services do not need a converter box to receive programs. Beginning February 17, 2009, the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act requires television stations to stop broadcasting in analog format and broadcast only in digital. All analog televisions receiving over-the-air programming, meaning households that use an antenna or "rabbit ears," will need to take one of the following actions: · Buy a television with a digital tuner; The TV Converter Box Program was created for those who want to continue using their analog televisions. Between Jan. 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, U.S. households will be able to use up to two $40 coupons to help defer the cost of a certified converter box. You can apply for the program via telephone at 1-888-388-2009, 1-877-530-2634 (TTY), or 1-866-495-1161 (Spanish). You can also apply online at the National Telecommunications Information Administration Web site, www.dtv2009.gov. For more information, call Senator Dinniman’s office at 610-692-2112 or e-mail jewald@pasenate.com. ### |