Particle.news
Download on the App Store
11 ARTICLES
·
6d ago

PBS Cuts 15% of Staff After Congress Rescinds Public Media Funding

Loss of CPB appropriations under a Trump-backed rescissions bill triggered a 21% PBS budget cut.

A sign for the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) is seen on its building headquarters, in Arlington, Va., on Feb. 18, 2025.
Image
Image

Overview

  • PBS said 34 employees were notified of layoffs on Thursday, part of nearly 100 positions eliminated in recent months that together represent about 15% of its workforce.
  • Congress in July reclaimed $1.1 billion previously advanced to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for 2026 and 2027, reversing decades of federal support.
  • CPB is winding down operations following the funding loss, while PBS is reducing station dues by $35 million and cutting roles tied to the eliminated Ready to Learn grant.
  • PBS CEO Paula Kerger told stations that a significant PBS Foundation grant will bolster NewsHour and PBS Kids, but staffing and operational cuts are still required.
  • Local outlets face the sharpest strain, with rural stations warning of service risks as NPR trims $8 million from its budget and stations such as KCAW report steep revenue hits.