Federal Funding Cut for Public Media

Dear Detroit PBS Community, 

Congress approved the White House’s rescission proposal, delivering disappointing news for public media.  

The decision eliminates two years of already-approved federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). For Detroit PBS and 90.9 WRCJ, this means the loss of nearly $3 million annually – funding that supports the local programs and services our community relies on most. 

Despite an outpouring of support from across Metro Detroit, and the three million people nationwide who contacted Congress, this harmful proposal passed by 216–213 margin. To everyone who acted, thank you. Your voice matters and we will continue to make sure it’s heard. 

This is a significant setback. Federal funding makes trusted journalism, educational children’s programming, classical and jazz music, and cultural content freely available to all. Losing this support will have real consequences. In the weeks ahead, we’ll keep you updated on the impact. 

But our commitment to you hasn’t changed. Detroit PBS and 90.9 WRCJ will continue to serve Southeast Michigan with integrity, quality, and accessibility. We are actively exploring all options to stabilize our operations and preserve the services you rely on, and we will update you on our plan to serve under new circumstances.  

While federal funding has been essential, public media also relies on people like you, donations from viewers help us stay strong, independent, and rooted in the community. If you’re able, please consider giving today to help us continue providing the programs, information, and public service our region depends on. 

We’ve faced tough moments before, and we’ve always emerged stronger because of you. If you value what we do, please stand with us today. Every contribution is a statement that public media matters to you, to our community, and to the future we’re building together. 

Sincerely, 
Rich Homberg 
President and CEO 
Detroit PBS and 90.9 WRCJ