LegNet April 2009

GFWC Participates in White House Forum

Over the last year, GFWC has been monitoring and providing clubwomen with information on the digital television conversion, which is now scheduled for June 12, 2009. The digital television conversion will provide more channels and programming options to Americans who have previously used only an analog signal through an antenna. The conversion also will free up parts of the valuable broadcast spectrum for public safety communications (such as police, fire departments, and rescue squads). Consumers also benefit because digital broadcasting allows stations to offer improved picture and sound quality, and digital is much more efficient than analog.

Last year Congress appropriated $1.83 billion in funding to provide coupons to assist in purchasing a converter box for those Americans who need financial assistance. 

On March 12, representatives from GFWC participated in a White House forum on the digital television conversion. GFWC was one of a handful of organizations invited to discuss and provide input into how the Administration can increase outreach to communities about the upcoming switch and the coupon program sponsored by the government. 

The forum was hosted by members of the President’s Council of Economic Advisors and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, an office of the Department of Commerce.  Other organizations participating in the forum included AARP, the NAACP, and the National Council of Black Churches others. What does GFWC have in common with these groups? Tremendous grassroots reach.

In preparation for the digital transition, GFWC clubs can learn more and help educate their communities on a variety of issues. For information visit https://www.DTV2009.gov/.