GAO report on Implementation of the Converter Box Subsidy Program

In this testimony, which is principally based on a report being issued today, GAO examines 1) what consumer education efforts have been undertaken by private and federal stakeholders and 2) how effective NTIA has been in implementing the converter box subsidy program, and to what extent consumers are participating in the program. To address these issues, GAO analyzed data from NTIA and reviewed legal, agency, and industry documents. Also, GAO interviewed a variety of stakeholders involved with the DTV transition. GAO recommends that the Secretary of Commerce direct NTIA to develop a plan to manage coupon requests in the lead up to the transition. (GAO-08-1161T)