House Votes on DTV Delay Bill Today

Today at 5PM the House will vote on the DTV Delay Bill which would delay the digital television transition by a few months but ultimately leave it up to television stations to decide when to switch.

The bill which has already been approved by the Senate unanimously, will move the transition date from February 17th to June 12th and allows three additional months to apply for the analog-to-digital converter box coupons. The coupon waiting list has been growing to great lengths as the along TV deadline quickly approaches. The government has essentially ran out of money to keep providing the coupons to American's. Once the economic stimulus package is approved, it will provide the money needed to distribute the coupons to those who need them most.

We addressed the concerns of our colleagues, public safety, broadcasters and most importantly, consumers, said Sen. Jay Rockefeller D-WV, chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee said. The House will have a second chance next week to implement this delay, I am hopeful they will pass this bill so we can send it to President Obama. to sign into law.

The major difference between the bill that failed to pass and the new one being presented, allows for broadcasters to switching off analog any time they like between Feb. 17 and June 12.

We will provide continuing coverage as the verdict of the Bill is announced.