Obama Focusing on DTV Transition

The Obama transition team is interviewing broadcast and consumer groups to get a handle on what kind of challenge it faces with the digital television switch, which takes place less than a month after he becomes president. Gene Kimmelman, VP and director of the Washington office of Consumers Union, said he's hopeful the change of administration will aid the digital switchover. "I think it should actually help," he said. "I am most concerned that [the Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration] isn't doing enough to make this as simple as possible to get the most low-cost converters out to consumers who need them. Hopefully the new players preparing to come into the Commerce Department will be more open to anticipate consumers' needs." "I think the most important thing is to continue to report on the transition to keep it in front of the new administration," said Mark Lloyd, VP of strategic initiatives for the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights. The group is worried that some people could lose their TV service in the transition. "This is a serious issue. For many Americans, over-the-air TV is a lifeline. It is the most relied-upon source of news and emergency information," Mr. Lloyd said. "While the broadcasters, the FCC, the Commerce Department's coupon program have been very helpful, there are still too many Americans who are at risk."