DTV2009 now more confusing, could be delayed until June 12

If consumer advocates thought that the digital TV transition was confusing before, it just got worse. Today, the United States Senate voted unanimously to delay the DTV transition, currently scheduled for February 17, up to four months to June 12. The approved bill will now head for Congress where it is expected to be approved as early as tomorrow.

Despite years of time to prepare, research firm Nielsen estimates that 6.5 million Americans will lose their TV reception when analog signals are shut off permanently February 17 (if they are). The unprepared tend to be seniors, minorities, and those living in rural areas. Anyone that has cable or satellite service or a newer HDTV need not worry. Only older analog TV's that receive over-the-air channels will be affected, but the government provides $40 converter box coupons so these TV's can still receive digital signals.

Unfortunately, there are currently 2.6 million people on an NTIA waiting list for coupons as the program hit a funding snag a few months back. If the delay is approved by Congress, it is estimated to cost public broadcasters $22 million.

Via ABC7

Read More in: Digital TV Transition 2009

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