Industry Wins Again on Digital Switch Education Efforts

Broadcasters will be able to choose between the federally mandated guidelines or those set forth by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) for informing the public about the upcoming transition from analog to digital signals, according to an FCC report due to be released as early as today, reports the Washington Post. The NAB had already won more leeway in implementing the switch from a technical perspective.

The article cites consumer groups and members of Congress urging stronger steps to educate the public. Broadcast industry officials, meanwhile, have wanted more flexibility in getting the message out to customers. The NAB and cable companies have pledged a total of $1.2 billion toward outreach efforts. Only 360 days remain until the switch, when anyone left with traditional rabbit ears atop their sets will get nothing but static.