| The recent debate over media consolidation and localism has overlooked the distinctly local service that public television and public radio stations provide to their communities.
Because "ownership" isn't in question, public broadcasting stations aren't as involved in that debate. But there is a lingering question about funding that threatens the services they now provide.
The House's FY 2004 Labor/HHS/Education Appropriations bill would reduce federal support for public broadcasting by $100 million. Public broadcasting would see a 26% reduction in federal funds. WSIU Public Broadcasting would suffer even more because the University receives special grants for rural areas that would most likely also be abolished.
Funding for WSIU Public Broadcasting represents a delicate balance between federal, state and local revenues. Nearly one-third of WSIU's funding comes directly from the federal government. A drastic reduction in the federal appropriation for public broadcasting would have a chilling effect on WSIU's ability to provide local programs and services and would simultaneously put its ability to continue to air NPR and PBS programs in jeopardy. Offsetting funds from other sources are not likely if the cuts are made.
The WSIU television and radio stations allow students and staff to produce award-winning programming. The bill in question would put that in jeopardy and could silence a strong local voice.
We ask those who are concerned about the preservation of locally controlled media to also consider the consequences of the legislation that would reduce funding for public broadcasting. Contact your congressional representatives and ask them to support the
Labor/HHS/Education Appropriations Bill at the funding level for public broadcasting proposed by the Senate.
Public stations provide the local programming that makes a difference. Take time to write, e-mail or phone today.
Candis Isberner
acting director, SIUC Broadcasting Service, general manager, WSIU Television
Tom Godell
Assoc. Director, SIUC Broadcasting Service, General Manager, WSIU Radio
John Lawson
President, American Public Television Stations (APTS)
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