System/Policy
Big Bird’s finances come under scrutiny at House budget hearing
Where are the tax returns, Big Bird?
System/Policy
Trump’s 2018 budget calls for phasing out public broadcasting funds
The $30 million for CPB is intended for “an orderly closeout of federal funding.”
Quick Takes
Latest version of Trump budget reportedly maintains push to end CPB funding
“There is a little money in the budget left to allow us to wind down the federal position,” said OMB director Mick Mulvaney.
Quick Takes
Public TV alum ponders ‘sacrifice’ of PBS, NPR funding
“Now, more than ever,” federal support is vital, writes a former “NewsHour” executive.
System/Policy
End of CPB funding would affect stations of all sizes
Service cuts and adjusting budgets can only go so far, says Station Resource Group co-CEO Tom Thomas.
System/Policy
Maryland congressman aims to defund NPR, ITVS
“We could put an end to funding permanently through statute,” says Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.). “And it’s probably time to do that.”
Quick Takes
Omnibus bill bumps up FY17 funds for Ready To Learn and arts endowments
Votes are expected before the end of the week.
Development
Stations shape fundraising pleas amid funding threat, potential auction windfalls
Public television’s spring fundraising rolled out in a heated high-stakes environment for clearly communicating a case for support.
System/Policy
Maryland bill would make up any cuts to state TV network’s federal funding
In fiscal year 2017, the state provided $8.2 million of Maryland Public Television’s $31.5 million budget.