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Indiana Public Broadcasting Stations, Inc. (IPBS), representing 17 public television and radio stations across the state, is expressing serious concern following the submission of a rescissions package by the White House to Congress. If passed, the measure would revoke advance federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) in fiscal years 2026 and 2027—placing local stations and the communities they serve in immediate jeopardy. In fiscal year 2024, Indiana stations received a total of $9.38 million from CPB.
The proposal calls for Congress to eliminate already-appropriated funds and prohibit CPB from distributing any remaining resources. The impact would be swift and far-reaching, especially in rural areas where public media serves as a vital information and education lifeline.
“This action, if approved, would bring our stations to their knees and the millions of Hoosiers who rely on them for trusted information, educational support, and public safety alerts will be negatively impacted,” said Mark Newman, Executive Director of IPBS. “It would force difficult decisions at the local level and put core services—many of which are irreplaceable—at risk.”
Public media in Indiana is about much more than programming. For decades, it has supported essential services in public safety, including broadcasting AMBER Alerts and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), and pioneering technology that supports first responders and teachers where cellular networks are hindered. Educational programming and digital tools provided by PBS help ensure every child—regardless of income or zip code—has access to high-quality, proven resources. Local journalism and civic content connect Hoosiers to their communities, culture, and history.
The CPB investment—less than $1.60 per American per year—supports one of the most successful public-private partnerships in U.S. history, leveraged more than seven times over at the local level. According to national polling, 76% of Americans support continued federal funding for public broadcasting.
“In rural Indiana especially, where commercial media is limited or nonexistent, our stations are often the only local media providers left,” said Newman. “Public broadcasting remains free, universally accessible, and local—qualities that are vanishing in today's fragmented media environment.”
The rescissions package requires only a simple majority vote in both chambers of Congress. Early reports suggest the U.S. House may vote within days once they receive the package. IPBS urges Indiana’s Congressional delegation to stand with their constituents and oppose any efforts to eliminate federal funding for public media.
“Defunding CPB is not a budget-cutting measure—it’s a dismantling of critical services relied upon by families, students, and emergency responders across Indiana and the country,” said Newman.
About IPBS
Indiana Public Broadcasting Stations, Inc. (IPBS) is a not-for-profit association of 17 public television and radio stations serving the state of Indiana. Together, IPBS member stations provide educational programming, public safety communication, and local journalism that connect communities and enrich civic life across Indiana. IPBS stations are strategically positioned in Bloomington, Elkhart, Evansville, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Merrillville, Muncie, South Bend, Vincennes, and West Lafayette. Additional information at IPBS.org.
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