The Federal Communications Commission has proposed almost $4 million in fines to seven major retailers for "willfully and repeatedly" selling analog-only TV sets without labels that warn consumers that the devices may not work after February 17, 2009—the last day of analog broadcasting. The scofflaws include the Sears-Roebuck/K-Mart group, which received a fine of $1.096 million; Wal-Mart, hit with a $992,000 forfeit; and CompUSA, which took the lowest penalty at $168,000.

Ironically, some of these retail giants have repeatedly filed statements with the FCC assuring the agency that they take their digital transition (DTV) obligations with the utmost seriousness. Fry's, Circuit City, Best Buy, and Target also received fines, bringing the total up to $3,928,000. All seven retailers can appeal the decision. . . . more