An amendment that will clear some TV broadcasting channels so that police, fire, and public safety officials can use the spectrum to communicate passed the Senate Commerce Committee by a as part of the Save Lives Bill. Sponsored by Senators "Fritz" Hollings, D-S.C., and Conrad Burns, R-Mont., the measure was recommended by the 911 Commission Report.
"We aren't letting the 9-11 Commission Report collect dust," said Sen. Hollings. "This gives first responders a very important tool for communicating in emergencies."
Under the measure, by 2008 TV broadcasters on analog channels 63, 64, 68, and 69 must transition to their digital channels and give up these analog channels so public safety officials can use them.