Digital Television Converter Boxes

To whom it may concern,

The switch to digital television will create a dramatic improvement in the clarity and quality of service for the millions of Americans. As a means of entertainment, information, and learning, the television has proven to be the most powerful tool to unify the American psyche in the last half century. It has also consolidated a national market for popular culture and consumerism. However, this switch to digital will leave behind thousands of television watchers. While this is a small fraction of the overall viewership, these forgotten few are generally the elderly, poor and rural residents. Without access to the vouchers due to proximity, mobility, or a technicality, many of these disenfranchised people will suffer an undue economic burden. In particular, the bill that extended the deadline for the conversion neglected to include those citizens living in Single Room Occupancy (SRO) housing units. And what would have cost these people $20 will now cost them a prohibitive $60. When will the government close this loop-hole and ensure access for all after the switch to digital television?

GUNNAR HAND, AICP