I urge you to oppose rescinding previously appropriated federal funding for public media. This action would dismantle the critical services provided by our local public radio and television stations. Eliminating federal funding would jeopardize our community’s safety; undermine access to proven educational resources for our children and workforce; and disconnect us from essential community information, forums, and storytelling that addresses local issues.
For about $1.60 per person annually, federal funding for public media delivers unmatched value. It ensures timely local and national emergency alerts and warnings reach our cell phones and the airwaves, provides families with educational content and experiences that help children to succeed in school, supports workforce development, preserves and celebrates our culture, and delivers trusted local information and storytelling. These services are not just beneficial — they are indispensable.
According to recent media reports, the Administration’s proposal would rescind $1.1 billion in already appropriated federal funding. This funding is essential for local stations, enabling them to collaborate with local partners and create tailored programming and outreach addressing urgent community needs, from natural disasters to the opioid epidemic. A rescission would immediately disrupt existing and planned initiatives that improve our local public safety, educational attainment, economic prosperity, and well-being.
As an effective public-private partnership, public radio and television stations leverage each federal dollar to raise an additional $6 from local audiences, businesses, and foundations. For rural, remote, and Native American communities, where local media options and broadband access are often limited even in an era of modern technology, federal funding represents up to 50% of local station budgets. These stations are lifelines — without federal support, many would be forced off the air and offline, cutting off access to vital services.
Defunding public media has severe local implications. Numerous studies confirm that there is no substitute for federal funding, which powers universal access to life-saving emergency alerts and warnings, proven educational resources for children who cannot afford preschool, and community connection.
Sustaining federal funding for public media is essential to the continued safety and strength of our communities. Please oppose any measures to rescind or defund public media. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.
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