PBS NC may face drastic federal funding cuts depending on Senate vote outcome

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — The loss of more than $1 billion in funding to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is getting closer to reality. North Carolina Public Television would not be immune to the cuts if the current rescissions package passes the U.S. Senate and is signed by President Trump.

The House already passed the measure last month. It also includes around $8 billion in cuts

to the United States Agency for International Development and Foreign Aid. 

Beyond the traditional programming that Public Television is known for, PBS North Carolina also provides emergency communications across the state as well as locally produced content. The vast majority of N.C. households can watch PBS over the air without the need for cable or broadband. 

At an annual rate of $4.8 million, federal funding is a vital component to PBS North Carolina’s budget. The rest of the budget primarily comes from individual donations and corporate sponsorships.

According to PBS North Carolina:

In fiscal year 2024, $29,607,593 in total revenue was received.

• 95,000+ individuals donated $12.47 million.
• 45 corporate funders put more than $3 million in revenue under contract, a 20% increase from 2023.
• PBS North Carolina maintained a balanced blend of funding from private foundations, federal and state government agencies and public media partners. 33 grants under contract totaled $2,244,697.

Congress has until Friday, July 18 to pass the legislation due to a process that allows the Senate to approve the funding cuts with a simple majority vote.