Statement by President Obama on the Transition to All-Digital Programming

The Digital Revolution is on our doorstep and the President had a few thoughts to share with the American people.

President Barack Obama White House photo

(WASHINGTON D.C.) - Here is the President's message to the people of the United States about a vast and sweeping technology upgrade about to take place with regard to television.

The one thing that Obama says won't happen, is another delay. The President says he recognizes that some people are unprepared for the change, but suggests in essence, that the show must go on.

On June 12 – one week from tomorrow – the nation’s full-power television stations will switch to all-digital programming. The transition to digital will free up airwaves for broadband and enhanced emergency communications for our police officers, firefighters, and other first responders.

In February, I worked with Congress to postpone the deadline television broadcasters had to end their analog signals, because it was clear that millions of Americans would have been left in the dark if the conversion had gone on as planned.

I directed key members of my Administration to reach out and help Americans, especially those in our most vulnerable communities, to make the switch to digital television.

In the months since then, we have worked hand in hand with state and local officials, broadcasters, and community groups to educate and assist millions of Americans with the transition.

The number of households unprepared for digital television has been cut in half. Still, some people are not ready. I want to be clear: there will not be another delay.

I urge everyone who is not yet prepared to act today, so you don’t lose important news and emergency information on June 12. And I encourage all Americans who are prepared, to talk to their friends, family, and neighbors to make sure they get ready before it’s too late.

Whilte House news release