Digital Revolution coming in 2009?

Every time I read an article about the switch to HDTV I feel like it always contains the words "could" or "maybe." But it sounds like the government is finally making some concrete decisions about the switch from analog to digital television.

Right now, the current date for mandated switch is February 17th, 2009 (this was actually a compromise between the House and the Senate... go figure they couldn't agree). At this point, all analog transmissions must be switch to digital broadcasts. The government plan also calls for billions in subsidy dollars to assist in the purchasing of converter boxes for those that own analog TV sets and can't afford an HDTV set. Apparently though, besides giving me access to crystal clear Pay-Per-View porn, this measure will also do some good. By switching to digital broadcasts, it frees up tons of radio spectrum which can then be used to improve the communication frequencies for fire/police departments and EMTs. You can read more about the switch at Local 6.