Senate Sets HDTV Transition Date in 2009

CEA Applauds Senate and House Action on DTV

ARLINGTON, VA – The following statement was issued today by Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) President and CEO Gary Shapiro in response to the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s “Committee Print” of the “Digital Television Transition Act of 2005” setting a hard date for the end of analog television broadcasting:

“The House Energy and Commerce Committee has taken a critical step toward completing our nation’s transition to digital television (DTV). The House legislation appropriately reflects the needs of consumers, manufacturers, broadcasters and all others with a stake in the DTV transition, while fostering innovation and ensuring America’s security. We pledge our full support in working with Chairman Barton, the Committee and other stakeholders as the legislative process moves forward and the final transition to digital television becomes a long-awaited reality.

“CEA also applauds the Senate Commerce Committee for passing a bill setting the hard date of the return of analog spectrum at April 7, 2009. Setting a hard cut-off date is a critical step in the process and I thank Senator Stevens and Senator Inouye for their leadership on this issue.”

About CEA:
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,000 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA’s members account for more than $121 billion in annual sales. CEA’s resources are available online at http://www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry.

CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES – Defining Tomorrow’s Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy.