$1.5 Billion for TV
Posted by Gian on January 1st, 2008
The US government has set aside $1.5 billion dollars for digital television boxes. In February of next year, the television industry will be switching from analog signals to digital. This means that anyone with an analog television will be unable to receive a picture. These televisions will now require a box to convert the signal. Now, while I understand this puts an unfair burden on low income families, I am annoyed that our government is so concerned about or TV viewing audiences that they will create $40 certificates.
What about health care? I know $1.5 billion wouldn’t go far for 300 million citizens, but wouldn’t it help some of the most needy? What about putting that towards renewable energy research, medical research, world peace, or something? Really, is TV that much a necessary component of our society that we need to create a coupon similar to food stamps for it? Am I the only person flabbergasted by this?