US Senator John McCain is attempting to get $1 billion in federal funding for consumers to help them move over to digital signals. Although currently a proposal, the legislation could help people move over to digital TV. Currently, it is proposed that broadcasters switch of the analogue signal and go all digital in 2009 if the 85% threshold is met. Although many US broadcasters currently send digital signals, very few Americans own digital enabled sets due to the prohibitively high cost.
The funding is thought to be aimed at devices to allow Analogue to Digital conversion for older TVs. McCain wishes to help low income families who would be badly affected by the switch. The legislation views the digital switch primarily as a technological advance, rather than a commercial move for hardware makers. "Consumers who rely on over-the-air television, particularly those of limited economic means, should be assisted."
The switch to digital means better quality for viewers as well as much more; analysts suggest that the revenue from selling off the analogue signal spectrum could be in the billions for the government. The switch also allows the freeing of space for better emergency services communication - a issue raised after the problems with 9/11. The US is following a similar move planned in the UK, who will be switching off the old signal in 2007. Freeview, the UK free digital service, works via a set top box. It offers ~30 free channels, and is currently installed in 4 million homes.