(Washington, DC) - Although the original Digital Television (DTV) Transition deadline was pushed back from February 17, 2009, the new deadline – June 12, 2009 – is fast approaching.  Congressman Baron Hill wants to ensure all Southern Indiana residents know that on Friday, June 12th, all of the nation’s full-power television stations will switch to all-digital programming.  This will mean that analog television sets that are not connected to a converter box, cable, or satellite will stop working. The transition is critical because it will free up airwaves for broadband and enhanced emergency communications for our police officers, firefighters, and other first responders.

Hill supported legislation delaying the February deadline, primarily because the DTV converter box coupon program had run out of funds and were issuing already-expired coupons to consumers.  Hill raised these concerns, which were included in S. 352 – legislation that postponed the DTV deadline - after hearing about Southern Indiana residents who were receiving already-expired coupons in the mail.

Some stations have already made the switch, as S. 352 allowed stations to apply for permission to switch on the original date.  As of this Friday, however, all full-power television stations will make the switch.

“I’m pleased that the number of households unprepared for digital television has been cut in half,” Hill said.  “But, some are still not ready. Because there will not be another delay, I encourage you to be prepared for the transition so that you do not lose access to important news and information.”

For more information about the DTV Transition, please visit http://www.dtv.gov/.