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After backlash, Alabama Public Television will keep paying for PBS
The commission rejected severing ties amid federal funding cuts and political bias claims, with PBS programming benefiting children including those with autism, officials said.
- On Tuesday, the Alabama Educational Television Commission voted at a packed hearing to keep its contract with PBS, passing a motion to retain programming.
- Two commission members last month had proposed severing ties, citing July's $1.1 billion funding cut by Congress and concerns about programming bias.
- Parents and viewers told commissioners at the Tuesday meeting, with Jennifer Greer warning, `Alabama families cannot afford expensive Disney+ streaming services. So, at least not everybody can. So, what is it that we're trying to say if we cut off PBS? Are we trying to say that educational television in Alabama is only for wealthy families?`
- The vote keeps programs such as Sesame Street, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, Antiques Roadshow and PBS NewsHour, while Alabama Public Television pays about $2.2 million and estimates replacement would cost $3.5 million annually.
- The commission instead formed a committee to explore APT's future and rejected a motion to give the 180-day nonrenewal notice, keeping the option to revisit the PBS relationship.
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Alabama Public Television to continue contract with PBS as it weighs its options
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Alabama Public Television will continue to pay for PBS contract, honoring its contract with them while they weigh other options for funding. On Tuesday, the Alabama Educational Television Commission voted to honor its contract with PBS, paying its bill through June 2026. In addition, the board approved the commission of a [...]
·Huntsville, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources25
Leaning Left4Leaning Right2Center12Last UpdatedBias Distribution67% Center
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources are Center
67% Center
L 22%
C 67%
11%
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