Updated: 01/28/2009 12:10 PM KSTP.com | 
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By: Becky Nahm
State lawmakers hold hearing on DTV switch
DTV questions and answers
Feds start wait list for DTV converter coupons
At the state capitol Thursday, lawmakers held a hearing on the switch to digital television and how it will affect Minnesotans.
The State Senate Energy, Utilities, Technology and Communications Committee heard from representatives from the Federal Communications Commission, the Minnesota Broadcasters Association and the National Telecommunications & Information Association, or NTIA.
The NTIA is the government agency tasked with doling out discount coupons for the purchase of digitial converter boxes.
On February 17, Television stations will shut off their analog signals and send an all-digital signal. TV sets will no longer work without a converter box.
The coupon program ran out of money and there is now a waiting list. The NTIA is lobbying Congress for more funds.
