Delay digital switch, consumer group asks

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- The Consumers Union is urging U.S. Congress to delay the transition to digital television, saying the program to help consumers switch is inadequate.

In letters sent to President George Bush, President-elect Barack Obama and House and Senate Commerce Committee chairmen, the advocacy group asked that the transition be postponed "until a plan is in place to minimize the number of consumers who will lose TV signals," The Washington Post reported Thursday.

Wednesday's request came two days after federal officials said they ran out of money to provide coupons that offset out-of-pocket expenses for a converter box.

Analog television sets relying on "rabbit ears" or outdoor antennas will need a converter box to receive a picture after Feb. 17, when television stations cease using analog signals and move to digital-only broadcasts.

Lawmakers said they are working to try to ensure consumers who need coupons will receive them in time, the Post said.

"But with the date looming, moving the date back certainly warrants further discussion and may be a wise choice," Daniel Reilly, a spokesman for Rep. Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., chairman of the House subcommittee on telecommunications and the Internet.

As of Sunday, consumers requesting $40 vouchers to help purchase a converter box -- retailing between $50 and $80 -- are being placed on a waiting list. Federal officials also are warning that some may not receive coupons in time for the switch.

A consumer can still buy a converter box at retail price without a coupon.

Federal officials mandated the switch to digital to free up airwaves for public safety agencies and advanced mobile devices.