"Today we are 370 days away from a significant milestone in the history of television. This morning's hearing will give us an important status check on our progress toward a successful, consumer-friendly transition," said Rep. Markey during his opening statement.

Rep. Markey highlighted three issues during his statement: the need to ensure that the converter box program is working smoothly, the need to understanding how many households will lose service because of the anticipated difference in geographical coverage for individual broadcasters after the switch to digital, and concern about how consumers of the hundreds of low power television stations that will not be converting to digital will be effected.

"It is vital to ensure that steps are taken by the FCC and the NTIA to coordinate on these matters with the affected industries so that the consumer education and outreach efforts effectively guards against widespread consumer confusion in these communities," continued Rep. Markey.

The chairman's full opening statement is available HERE.