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PBS chief pushes for digital conversion action

Waiting list for those seeking converter box coupons 'inexcusable,' she says

updated 4:04 p.m. ET Jan. 7, 2009

LOS ANGELES - Public television president Paula Kerger says she's disheartened that the government has run out of money to help TV viewers buy converter boxes for the looming transition to digital conversion.

PBS President and Chief Executive Officer Kerger called upon Congress and the Commerce Department to fix the situation as soon as possible. The federal coupon program helps consumers buy the boxes that will allow TV sets to continue getting over the-air broadcasts.

She called it "inexcusable" the people seeking the coupons are being put on a waiting list.

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The switch to digital television is set for Feb. 17.

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