Dear Friends,
We have great news to share! The Senate has passed the continuing resolution (CR) for the remainder of fiscal year 2025, ensuring stable funding for public media through September 30, 2025. With the House having passed the bill earlier this week, and the President expected to sign it into law, we can all breathe a little easier knowing that the essential work of public television will continue uninterrupted.
This victory didn’t happen by chance—it happened because of dedicated advocacy, including efforts from public media leaders across the country. A few weeks ago, all of the Washington State PBS general managers came together in Washington, D.C., for a national meeting to demonstrate the impact of public media on Capitol Hill. It was the first time in years that our entire statewide delegation stood united, and the trip was well worth it. We met with lawmakers and key decision-makers to reinforce the vital role PBS stations play in education, emergency response, and civic engagement. These face-to-face conversations helped underscore why public media funding is essential—and this legislative victory is proof that advocacy makes a difference.
For KSPS PBS and stations across the country, this funding is more than just a number—it’s a commitment to the educational, cultural, and emergency services we provide to our communities every day. The bill includes:
âś… $535 million for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) in FY 2027
âś… $60 million for public television interconnection and system infrastructure
âś… $40 million for the Next Generation Warning System (NGWS) at FEMA
While we celebrate these victories, we also recognize that some areas of funding remain uncertain. Programs like Ready To Learn, which helps ensure educational resources for young learners, may be at the discretion of the Administration. We will continue working with our partners to advocate for its full funding.
At the same time, we are mindful of ongoing challenges. Just as we celebrate this important win for public media, we also acknowledge an upcoming congressional hearing that could threaten the foundation of public broadcasting. On March 26, the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Chairwoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, will hold a hearing titled “Anti-American Airwaves: Holding the Heads of NPR and PBS Accountable.” This hearing will question why public media should continue receiving taxpayer support, despite our long-standing commitment to balanced, fact-based journalism and high-quality programming that serves the American public.
This is a moment that calls for vigilance. Public media belongs to the people—it is a service that ensures access to educational programming, emergency alerts, and cultural storytelling that might otherwise disappear in a purely commercial marketplace. These hearings are a reminder that public media funding is never guaranteed, and that our continued advocacy is essential to ensuring that PBS remains strong and independent.
Your support made this funding victory possible. Every call, email, and conversation with elected officials helped underscore the importance of public media in our communities. Your voices matter, and they made a difference. Now, as we face new challenges, your engagement remains just as critical.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to keeping KSPS PBS strong. This funding gives us the breathing room to continue our initiatives, expand our outreach, and bring you the high-quality programming and services you rely on.
To all of you who have supported KSPS PBS—whether by contacting your representatives, becoming a member, or simply tuning in—thank you. This is your victory, too.
Enjoy the win, and let’s keep moving forward together.
Sincerely,
Gary Stokes
President and General Manager
KSPS PBS