Public broadcasting is facing a potential funding cut that could impact thousands of jobs in journalism, performing arts, production, and public service. The U.S. Senate has voted to rescind $1.1 billion in federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which supports PBS, NPR, and over 1,500 local public stations nationwide. This bill may pass its final hurdle in the House soon.
SAG-AFTRA members are urged to contact their Representatives to oppose this rescission. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator, emphasized the importance of this funding for maintaining public media as a source of fact-based reporting and culturally diverse storytelling.
The potential consequences include job losses for union members in radio, television, and digital production; reduced emergency alerts and educational programming; limited access to cultural content; and threats to media diversity and fair pay.
Members are encouraged to reach out to their Representatives using a sample letter provided by SAG-AFTRA. The organization represents approximately 160,000 professionals in various entertainment and media fields.
