CEA Applauds House Approval of DTV Legislation Establishing Cut-off Date for Analog Broadcasts; Urges Swift Action from the President to Expedite DTV Transition

Business Wire, Feb 1, 2006

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The following statement was issued today by Consumer Electronics Association (CEA(R)) President and CEO Gary Shapiro in response to the passage of the Digital Television (DTV) Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005, which is incorporated into the Budget Reconciliation conference report. With the passage in the House today, the bill awaits the final signature of President Bush:

"The U.S. is inches away from completing the transition to DTV. We applaud the work done by the House and the Senate in coming together on this issue. This legislation will provide the much needed certainty to expedite our nation's transition to DTV in an effective and pro-consumer manner. CEA has long supported a hard cut-off date for analog broadcasts and is pleased with the decision for the analog spectrum to be returned to the federal government by February 17, 2009. This deadline will provide certainty to manufacturers, retailers, consumers and all others with a stake in the transition.

"Now we call on President Bush for his final signature. At the same time, CEA will continue its award-winning consumer education efforts to make sure all consumers are aware of the options and opportunities. We also look forward to working together with the broadcasters, cable system operators, government officials and others to make the final steps in this transition a seamless reality."

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,000 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $125 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry.

CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Defining Tomorrow's Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy.

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