When the FCC's Kevin Martin
asserted that the 2009 digital TV transition subsidy program was nearing the end of its financial rope back in October, no one really paid him any mind. After all, this ain't the FCC's gig. Now, however, an
AP report on
the topic is confirming the fears, noting that the NTIA itself is "warning that unless lawmakers step in quickly with more funding or new accounting rules, it will have to create a waiting list for coupon requests." Should this occur, new vouchers would only be sent out once previously mailed vouchers expired without being used. As of now, only $68.2 million of the $1.34 billion set aside for this program remains free, and after February 17th comes and goes, you
can bet the interest will skyrocket. Moral of the story? Get
your request in now if you're in need (
check here to see if you are).
[Via
ShellyPalmerMedia]
Update: The
well is dry! Yikes!
posted Jan 5th 2009 at 2:15PM
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Maxx @ Jan 5th 2009 2:33PM
It looks as if a waiting list has already begun. I was approved and told that unless any more money becomes available that I wouldnt get them. There was no mention of expiring coupons providing relief. It did however say on another page that thouse approved between the 3rd and the 9th would be mailed out the 23rd. So who knows.
Matt @ Feb 3rd 2009 11:33PM
I just tried to sign up and got this message...
IMPORTANT:
We have determined that you are eligible to participate in this program and your coupon application has been approved. However, because program funding is not currently available, you will not receive coupons unless more funding becomes available. If program funding becomes available you should receive your coupons in the mail.
Miggity @ Jan 5th 2009 4:08PM
Maybe if all the sh!theads that didn't need the coupons had restrained themselves this wouldn't have happened.
/I'm looking at you Engadget HD readers
Jared @ Jan 17th 2009 12:33PM
I got 2... ended up not needing them. and threw them out. the govn't was probably stupid enough to pay people before the coupons where used and not after... B/c i probably threw $80 of Govn't money in the trashcan... (like it hasn't happened enough already)
Shoeboy @ Jan 6th 2009 9:01AM
There's probably a ton of people who are hording these coupons and are going to try selling them for $20 via ebay or some other site.
Dee Landin @ Jan 8th 2009 1:28AM
No doubt you're correct in your prediction.
Jake B @ Jan 8th 2009 7:25PM
Oh my god working at Sears so many retards would come through and get the boxes regardless of how new their TV was. DRRR I needz a convertzor for my 52" 850 samsung, DRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!
Matt @ Jan 8th 2009 9:29PM
We have determined that your household is eligible to participate in this program. However, at this time program funding is not currently available to fulfill your request. Your application has been placed on a waiting list. You do not need to apply again. When and if funds become available, coupon requests will be fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis.
You can use the reference number below to check the status of your request.
For additional information on how to prepare for the transition, please click here or call the FCC at 1-888-CALLFCC (1-888-225-5322)