By Staff
LANSING – Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm Tuesday joined with the Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB) to remind citizens to make sure they are prepared for the transition to digital television so they can receive vital public safety and emergency information broadcast after Feb. 17, 2009.
"One of the most common ways for citizens to get public safety or emergency information is from their televisions, which is why it is so important they make the switch to digital television successfully," Granholm said.
"The news, weather and community information we receive from television could be critical to our families. We do not want any Michigan family to be left without this vital information."
Analog televisions that receive a signal over the air will no longer show a picture after Feb. 17.
The governor highlighted three steps that can help citizens with the transition to digital television:
Purchase a new digital TV with a built-in tuner;
Subscribe to a paid TV service such as cable or satellite; or
Purchase a converter box for the analog TV.
To assist citizens, the federal government distributed a limited number of $40 coupons toward the purchase of a converter box.
Karole White, president of MAB, noted that it is important for citizens to apply even though there currently is a waiting list for the coupons.
"Applications are still being accepted for $40 coupons toward the purchase of a converter box, and citizens are encouraged to add their names to the waiting list so they can receive a coupon when more become available," White said.
Converter boxes can be purchased at most electronic retailers and range from $40 to $70.
The federal government mandated that all television stations turn off their analog signals and broadcast exclusively in a digital format.
The move to digital by broadcast television will free up spectrum for new wireless devices and also will make available common spectrum for first responders.
This reminder is part of the governor's continued efforts to protect Michigan citizens by insuring that they have the information they need to make important decisions.
Michigan has a helpline available with live operators to answer questions and/or help citizens order a coupon to be used toward the purchase of a converter box.
The Michigan DTV Helpline is sponsored by Don-Lors Electronics and can be reached by calling 888-643-8809, or you can visit the Michigan DTV Web site at www.michiganDTV.com for more information.