Breaking News: Corporation for Public Broadcasting to Cease Operations Amid Federal Budget Cuts—What This Means for NPR and PBS

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) announced it will begin shutting down operations due to cuts in federal funding initiated by the Trump administration. Established in 1967, the CPB plays a crucial role in supporting public media, including 1,500 local radio and television stations, PBS, and NPR. It employs around 100 staff members.

In May, President Trump signed an order to stop federal funds for PBS and NPR. Following this, Congress trimmed more than $1.1 billion allocated to the CPB. For the first time in over 50 years, funding for the CPB has been eliminated in the Senate Appropriations Committee’s 2026 bill.

CPB President Patricia Harrison expressed disappointment, noting the efforts of many Americans to preserve funding. She reassured that the organization aims to handle the transition with care, even as most staff will lose their jobs by September 30, 2025. A small team will stay on until early 2026 to ensure a smooth closeout.

PBS and NPR have faced scrutiny from Republican lawmakers for years. Both organizations rely on CPB for nearly $500 million in public funding, making them vulnerable to budget cuts. PBS CEO Paula Kerger and NPR President Katherine Maher defended their networks against claims of bias earlier this year. Maher warned that the cuts could threaten public safety, especially in rural areas where local stations provide vital emergency alerts.

In an interview, Maher highlighted the crucial role public media plays during disasters like storms and wildfires. She emphasized that losing this type of information source could leave communities less prepared for emergencies.

Public media serves as a lifeline for many. As cuts happen, the impact on local stations and their ability to inform the public could be profound.

For more details about the CPB’s situation and its implications for public media, visit the CPB pressroom.

Source link

Corporation for Public Broadcasting, NPR, PBS, Television