Digital Television Transition
Get Ready for the DTV Transition
On February 17, 2009, all full-power TV stations nationwide will switch from transmitting analog TV signals to broadcasting only digital signals.
If not adequately informed and prepared, 21 million households that rely solely on free, over-the-air TV may lose access to critical emergency, news, weather, and community information.
Here are 3 things YOU can do to be prepared and to help others in your community prepare:
1 - Get your coupons!
If you currently use rabbit ears or a rooftop antenna to watch free, over-the-air TV, you will need a converter box to receive the new digital TV signals.
You can request government-sponsored $40 coupons to offset the purchase of converter boxes. These coupons are free but supplies are limited so order now. Visit DTV2009.gov to submit an online request, or call 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009).
2 - Stay informed so you can help others!
Visit Civilrights.org/DTV to learn more about the DTV transition, the TV Converter Box Coupon Program, and public outreach opportunities and activities.
3 - Get the word out!
Help reach those who will be hardest hit by this transition:
- Post DTV flyers in visible places, including your local schools, libraries, supermarkets, places of worship and community centers.
- Hand out coupon request forms - available in English, Spanish, Cambodian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, French, Hmong, Korean, Lao, Russian, Tagalog and Vietnamese.
You can find these and other DTV materials in our Organizer Toolkit.
