G. K. Butterfield: “This is an important issue. In my district, at least, it is very important. This is not an academic issue. It is very…”

“This is an important issue. In my district, at least, it is very important. This is not an academic issue. It is very important. I am pleased that we now have another chance to pass this vitally important bill, because it has become increasingly clear that, with the digital transition deadline looming just days away, literally millions of Americans are at risk of being left in the dark. With an estimated 6.5 million households still unprepared for the digital transition, it is clear that a short delay is necessary. There are 6,000 households on the waiting list for converter box coupons in my district alone, and that number grows daily. So a short implementation delay is necessary, and I do not see the problem in granting this request. Without a delay, many of these people would be without television service and would be at risk in the event of a disaster or of a national emergency. I represent a rural area where many people rely on over-the-air television broadcasts. So this issue is particularly important for districts like mine. People clearly need more time to learn just what this transition will mean for them.”