Proposed Cuts Would Force Reduction in Service and Programs

February 10, 2015 Wisconsin Public Television Leave a Comment

A message from the chairs of the Wisconsin Public Radio Association and Friends of Wisconsin Public Television:

As supporters of Wisconsin Public Television and Wisconsin Public Radio we want to provide an update on the developing situation related to the biennial budget proposal announced on February 3, 2015.

The budget proposal includes an approximately 34% cut to the state portion of the Educational Communications Board (ECB) who, in partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Extension, operate WPR and WPT. The proposed cuts are significant and they would force a reduction of service to the people of Wisconsin.

The gap that would be created by these unprecedented cuts could not be covered through increased fundraising alone, despite our record of funding success and an assertive year-round fundraising program. And certainly, any substantial fundraising increase of this size would take time to successfully implement, while the budget cuts being proposed would take effect July 1.

The WPR and WPT service that you rely on is based on a thoughtful balance of public and private support. This budget proposal upsets that balance and, therefore, threatens the programs and services you have come to rely on.

WPR and WPT belong to you and you should have a voice in what happens to them. If you would like your voice to be heard, contact your elected officials and let them know how you feel about state funding for WPT and WPR, and the role they play in your community. Find contact information for your legislators here.

Thank you for your continued support. WPR and WPT are working closely with our partners at the ECB and the University of Wisconsin-Extension to monitor the budget news as it develops and we’ll keep you informed. If you have questions or concerns, please let us know.

Sincerely,

Linda Prehn
President, Friends of Wisconsin Public Television

Dean Dietrich
President, Wisconsin Public Radio Association

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Alyssa Beno

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