WASHINGTON-TV broadcasters have accepted a hard date for the transition to digital TV, their lobbyist told Congress Tuesday morning.
“Broadcasters accept that Congress will set a hard date in 2009,” said Edward Fritts, president and chief executive officer of the National Association of Broadcasters. “Our board met three weeks ago and indicated that we would accept a hard date as set by this committee, understanding that the 85 percent would go away.”
The Senate Commerce Committee is examining the DTV transition in an all-day hearing. The morning session featured representatives of the broadcast, cable and satellites industries.
Following the morning session, Sen. Ted Stevens, R-Alaska, chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, indicated that the hard date may be set sometime after Jan. 1, 2009. “I think Congress should be in session to handle any glitches that may arise,” Stevens said.
