2008 is the year when all US TV broadcasters will be forced by the FCC to switch to digital broadcast only. The 15% of households who depend on broadcast TV and don't have a digital-ready set will be forced to deal with this change.
The government is here to help you. Their help comes in the form of coupons good for $40 off any of a number of approved models of digital->analog converter boxes. The boxes are estimated to cost around $50-$60 before the coupon; each household may have up to two coupons.
You have to apply for the coupons starting January 1, and there's a large but finite supply. I'd suggest applying for your household maximum right away; they're handy devices in an emergency even if you don't normally use broadcast TV. You can apply here.
Happy Holidays! (B)
Updated 1 January 2008: Corrected URL.
Update 6 March 2008. Got our coupons today.