We learned late last week that there is a new attempt to dismantle one of the key institutions of public broadcasting. The latest proposal from the House Appropriations Subcommittee that funds public broadcasting would prohibit SDPB and all public radio stations from using federal grants to help pay for any programming or services from NPR.

It would also prohibit using grant funds for access to programs beyond NPR News, like Car Talk, Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me! and even A Prairie Home Companion, as well as use of the satellite system that is the backbone of public radio. For smaller stations, this effort could completely isolate communities from national news and would make it difficult for SDPB to share our own programming with stations around the state and nation.

The strength and independence of SDPB comes from a broad base of community support. To all the current and sustaining members of SDPB – thank you for doing your part to ensure that all of South Dakota continues to have access to the core services of NPR and the national and global news that only they provide.

There are many ways you can help. First, join the national conversation about public broadcasting at 170 Million Americans for Public Broadcasting. Second, encourage your friends and neighbors to sign up for special e-Alerts from the Friends of SDPB at SaveSDPB.org. Third, contact your legislators in Washington, D.C. and express your opinion about funding Public Broadcasting.

We also appreciate your financial support at whatever level you can by going online at SDPB.org or calling 800-333-0789.

This promises to be the first of many proposals put forth in Washington, D.C. that threatens funding for public broadcasting. Signing up for updates will ensure that you will be up-to-date regarding funding at both the federal and state level. The Friends of SDPB does not share or sell your personal information.

Thank you for listening, and for whatever support you can provide.

Sincerely,

Julie Andersen
Executive Director, South Dakota Public Broadcasting