ADVISORY Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, S.W. Washington, D. C. 20554 This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974). News Media Information 202 / 418-0500 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov TTY: 1-888-835-5322 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: June 12, 2009 FCC DTV Media Hotline 202-418-1013 202-418-7917 FCC CHAIRMAN HAILS NEW ERA IN BROADCASTING; ASSURES CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR CONSUMERS MAKING THE TRANSITION TO DIGITAL TV WASHINGTON, D.C. – As all full-power television stations nationwide switch to all- digital transmission today, Acting FCC Chairman Michael J. Copps issued the following statement: “Today’s historic transition to digital TV is an important step forward in U.S. broadcasting, offering consumers access to more free over-the-air programming as well as higher quality pictures and sound. The transition also frees up valuable airwaves for emergency communications and advanced wireless services. “At the same time, I recognize the great challenge that today’s switch presents for many consumers. Even though the overwhelming majority of households are DTV-ready, we are fully committed to helping those who have yet to join the digital television age both today and in the days to come. Some consumers may experience problems that have simple solutions, such as adjusting antennas or re-scanning for channels, and we have 4,000 trained operators standing by on our toll-free helpline, 1-888-CALL-FCC, 24 hours a day, to talk them through those and any other more serious problems they may have. “Along with Commissioners Adelstein and McDowell, my staff and I will be monitoring the transition closely, analyzing the types of calls our helpline is getting, communicating regularly with broadcasters and other key stakeholders, and getting feedback from our FCC staff in the field. We are ready to respond quickly and focus resources wherever they may be needed.” - FCC -