Analog TV shutoff extension falters in Congress as digital TV transition looms

[Commentary] The Short-term Analog Flash and Emergency Readiness (SAFER) Act, a bill to require the Federal Communications Commission to provide for a short-term partial extension of the analog television broadcasting authority, has moved through the Senate, but sits in the House without action. Given that Congress is focused right now on the national financial crisis and the likely bailout of the U.S. auto industry, the House is not likely to act on SAFER before it adjourns this month. Consequently, SAFER will have to be re-introduced in the Senate and House when the new Congress convenes in January. If the sponsors are willing to shepherd the bill though both chambers, legislation could be ready for President Obama's signature when he takes office on January 20, 2009. However, if Congress is distracted by more pressing matters, SAFER may not be get passed and signed before the analog shutoff. If that turns out to be the case, bye-bye analog TV on February 17. For broadcasters, do not count on SAFER. Tell viewers to make the transition to digital right now, if they haven't already, so they are not staring at static on a blank screen in February.