Haley Stevens: “this amendment would close off the analog broadcasting too close to the auction of spectrum. We currently have an April…”

“this amendment would close off the analog broadcasting too close to the auction of spectrum. We currently have an April 2009 date. The auction date is January of 2009. It is just too close together. The leases cannot be processed. There is no way those auction proceeds can be available until licenses are issued. This amendment would end analog broadcasts before the funds are available for the converter box fund or the translator conversion fund authorized by S. 1932. We need help in this transition. The amendment makes spectrum available to public safety groups before they can put it to use because we are informed public safety groups must have at least 3 years to prepare for the use of spectrum. We are going to get them the spectrum. They will not be able to use it until we have the money to bring about the transition. I believe our whole committee should oppose this amendment. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator's time has expired. The yeas and nays were previously ordered on the amendment. The question is on agreeing to the amendment. The clerk will call the roll. The bill clerk called the roll.”