FCC fines consumer electronics retailers for not labeling analog TV sets

The FCC last week levied fines totaling $96,000 against Radio Shack and five other consumer electronics retailers for failing to properly label analog TV sets for sale.

After repeated warnings, Radio Shack was fined $16,000 for “willfully and repeatedly” failing to place the required labels on analog TV sets without a digital tuner. The warning label alerts consumers that the set will require a digital converter after Feb. 17, 2009.

The FCC’s Enforcement Bureau issued a citation to Radio Shack on May 31 for failing to display the proper label. In June, additional citations were issued for Radio Shack stores and the company’s Web site.

In addition to Radio Shack, $24,000 fines for the same violation were issued against Fred Meyer Stores and Ultimate Electronics; $16,000 for Boscov’s.; and $8000 each for Gregg Appliances and Trans World Entertainment. All had received previous citations.