SDPB and Friends of SDPB were disappointed that Governor Kristi Noem had recommended deep cuts to South Dakota Public Broadcasting’s budget, amounting to a 65% decrease in our state budget allocation.
SDPB provides South Dakotans with one-of-a-kind local programming, including high school sports and fine arts, Dakota Life, In the Moment with Lori Walsh, South Dakota Focus and live legislative coverage.
SDPB also plays critical roles in education, public safety, and helps ensure open government for all citizens of our state.
A cut of this size and scale will force significant reductions to all these important services. This cut is likely to disproportionately affect rural service, where SDPB’s programming is most valued.
SDPB has worked hard for over 50 years to earn the public's trust and support. We will be counting on our fellow South Dakotans and their collective voices to ensure our state continues to have a viable, free, public broadcasting service for the next generations to enjoy.
We look forward to working with Governor Larry Rhoden and his staff, and legislators through the budget process during the 100th South Dakota Legislative Session.
For those with concerns, we encourage them to reach out to Friends of SDPB, the non-profit organization that advocates on behalf of SDPB. They can be reached at [email protected] or by calling 605-367-7266.