Public Broadcasting Faces Devastating Cuts

Public broadcasting leaders are sounding the alarm as Congress greenlights a controversial bill cutting all federal funding for essential programs like PBS and NPR. This drastic move comes as part of a larger $9 billion spending cut package, which passed the House early Friday morning after a troubling Senate vote just two days prior.

A Blow to Community Voices

Paula Kerger, president and CEO of PBS, condemned the cuts, stating that they "contradict the will of the American people." She warned that smaller stations, particularly those serving rural areas, will be hit hardest, jeopardizing free local programming and emergency alerts that many communities rely on.

Public Safety at Risk

In a stark reminder of the stakes, NPR CEO Katherine Maher highlighted that nearly 75% of Americans depend on public radio for critical news and safety alerts. Meanwhile, Kate Riley, of America’s Public Television Stations, expressed devastation at the decision to eliminate funding that supports community connections and lifesaving services across the U.S.

Tribal Stations in Jeopardy

Loris Taylor, head of Native Public Media, voiced her distress over the Senate's decision, labeling it "deeply troubling." Taylor, who leads a network of 57 Native stations, warned that the cuts pose an immediate threat to small, rural, and Tribal stations that often serve as the sole source of local news and educational content.

Voices from the Ground