The National Association of Broadcasters released a statement last Thursday regarding recent discussions on whether to alter the digital television transition hard date, originally set by Congress as February 17, 2009.

Commenting on the matter, NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton said:

"The certainty created when Congress set the February 17 hard date for the DTV transition was a positive catalyst for broadcasters, manufacturers, retailers, public safety groups, consumers and the government.

"NAB and broadcasters nationwide are committed to being ready by February 17 and strongly support a solution that would enable the government to continue making converter box coupons available to consumers who rely on free television. We continue to urge Congress to act swiftly to ensure coupons are made available for those who need them.

"Broadcasters have been and will continue to be committed to doing everything in our power to make this transition work to ensure that viewers continue to have access to the important news and information that free, local television provides. The debate and discussion over the DTV transition only highlights the enduring value and popularity of free and local television."