Alabama Public Television Considers Ending PBS Partnership

Alabama Public Television (APT) is contemplating a significant shift by potentially severing its longstanding partnership with PBS, which provides approximately 90% of its programming. This decision, if finalized, would make APT the first educational network in the United States to disassociate from PBS, impacting popular children’s shows like Sesame Street and Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.

During a public meeting held on November 7, 2023, APT board members engaged in a thorough discussion regarding the financial and political implications of either continuing or ending the partnership with PBS. APT Board Member Johnny Curry emphasized the gravity of the decision, stating, “We have to be very careful about deciding whether to sever that relationship. If you sever it, you’ve got to come up with 90% of your programming to replace, and that includes all of the educational programming the children watch during the day, which is the main mission of this institution.”

The potential disaffiliation comes in light of recent federal funding cuts, notably the $1.1 billion reduction implemented by President Donald Trump to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. This funding is crucial, as it supports over 1,500 local public radio and television stations across the country, accounting for about 13% of APT’s annual budget.

While the PBS partnership was not officially on the meeting agenda, discussions surrounding it quickly gained momentum. Some board members were unaware that the topic would arise, while others arrived with prepared statements advocating for disaffiliation. Commissioner Les Barnett presented a detailed five-page document outlining alternative programming options if APT were to separate from PBS. Alongside him, Commissioner William Green raised concerns about the potential political ramifications, suggesting that maintaining ties with PBS could negatively influence funding opportunities from conservative political leaders in Alabama.

Green noted, “That needs to be under consideration, PBS’s negative impact on Alabama Public Television, and how it affects our ability to get money from the more conservative leaders in this state.” The sentiment among board members was one of caution, with many agreeing that further discussions are necessary before reaching a final decision.

If APT were to proceed with disaffiliation, it would lose access to hallmark educational and news programming, significantly affecting local communities. For example, a religious school in Hoover gathers approximately 300 children each morning to watch Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, a show based on a character from Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. School leaders have noted that this tradition has become an integral part of the children’s daily routine, enhancing their educational experience.

Board Member Bebe Williams suggested exploring whether APT could selectively choose PBS programming before making a final decision on disaffiliation. The next meeting is scheduled for November 18, 2023, when APT officials hope to encourage public and legislative feedback regarding this critical matter. Conroy, another board member, expressed the importance of allowing adequate time for deliberation, stating, “I would like to think that we would have time to deliberate and really get everyone’s opinions before we make decisions that can’t be undone.”

As discussions continue, the future of Alabama Public Television and its relationship with PBS remains uncertain, with potential repercussions for its viewers and educational programming throughout the state.