Sam Farr: “I believe public broadcasting funding is a good investment. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting is an excellent…”

“I believe public broadcasting funding is a good investment. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting is an excellent example of one of the most successful public-private partnerships in the country. Every $1 in appropriated funds leverages $5 in private investment. More than 90 percent of the Federal appropriation goes directly back to States and local communities, either for direct services or programming. In 1993, for example, CPB's $253 million appropriation created more than $1.5 billion in revenue for local stations. This modest investment is critical to our local communities. Public broadcasting programs are the only commercial-free shows available on television, and have wide appeal; many are educational and award-winning, such as 'Sesame Street' and 'NOVA.' I am sure that almost every Member in Congress has fond memories of watching 'Sesame Street,' 'Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood,' or the 'Electric Company' themselves or with their children, along with new ones such as 'Barney.' CPB programs are not just for children though; many of us regularly tune into CPB supported shows such as 'This Old House' and the 'McNeil-Leher Hour.' Public television and radio provide an important outlet which is not dictated by corporate sponsors.”