Reply #71: ok here are some

[DadOf2LittleAngels]

In some states (and coming soon nationally) compact fluorescent Light bulbs
Cars that get a certain Gas Mileage
For people under 18 Non Alcoholic beer ;)
Certain Medications

"Really? Is that actually the reason? It's just so damn good that the government wants to make sure we don't miss out on its goodness? Are they fucking serious?"

Well no, the real reason is because the government manages the signals allowed to travel through the air and upgrading to HD signals is 'sort of' an infrastructure improvement.

"a) have the ability to pull the plug and shut down communication at a moment's notice, something which cannot be done with an over-the-air analog broadcast signal"

If you dont think the govt cant shut down a conventional signal as easily as an HDTV one your mad.. The technology is no more centrally controlled by the govt.

"b) require DRM-like copy protection on your digital devices, as a stroke to their big-media contributors."

Well in this you may have a point were it not for the fact you can go buy an HD antenna for your non HD tv and still use the same av capture devices as before.

"Oh, and we'll even give you $40 to buy a new converter box, another give-away to the industry. "

I viewed it as making sure those who are not of means will not have to go buy a new TV..