As 2009 Approaches, Obama’s Big Issue is Satellite and Cable TV

Barack Obama may have a lot of things on his mind as his presidential administration begins…and surprisingly, one of the most pressing issues right now is digital television and the big “cut off date” of February 17, 2009. As you may know by now (and apparently, the government is fairly sure you don’t) federal law will require that all full-power television broadcast stations cease broadcasting in terrestrial/analog format and switch over to digital content through DTV, satellite TV or cable TV. Why did this happen?

The government thought ceasing terrestrial broadcast for entertainment was in America’s best interest, as this would allow more local frequencies to be used for public safety communications and other purposes. This was decided upon shortly after September 11, 2001 in an effort to tighten security, though commercial gain was also a factor, since these open stations could now be auctioned off. Besides that, digital broadcasting is simply a smarter means of transmission technology that can deliver superior picture and sound quality and more stable reception. In theory, digital broadcasting did everyone a favor.

However, the operation of switching from terrestrial broadcast to digital broadcast didn’t go as smoothly as planned. What has happened as of late is that the government’s consumer-help program that was created to help bring about this change ran out of money. Only two billion dollars were set aside to help educate the public and facilitate the change. This was a major oversight as the government actually earned almost 20 billion dollars after auctioning off free airwaves to various telecommunications companies. More important than a lack of education happening is that the program has run out of coupons that would have made these digital converters practically free.

It is now estimated that almost ten million people will be without television come February, either because they are not aware of the change coming up, or because they don’t wish to buy a digital tuner at full price. (Why pay big money for something you currently have for free?) You wouldn’t think such a satellite TV/cable TV crises would be on the mind of President Obama but he made headlines recently by asking congress for a postponement of the digital TV transition. If a postponement were possible, more coupons could be sent out.

The FCC thus far has remained undecided on whether or not there should be a delay. If the postponement doesn’t go through then undecided viewers will have to choose between cable or satellite TV, both of which are ready and equipped for digital broadcasting. Otherwise, all networks and local stations will go black.

Don’t risk it and don’t play the government’s game! Just know that if you decide to wait for a coupon, there is already a waiting list of millions of people that precede you. The only way to ensure that you keep all of your favorite shows is to subscribe to premium TV. Not only do cable and satellite TV providers bring you networks and local stations, but they can also offer you exclusive package programming, hundreds of channels and top quality digital transmission. Contact the proper channels to ensure your favorite channels are still available in March!