DEMOCRATIC LEADER RELEASES STATEMENT ON THE GOVERNOR'S PROPOSED DEFUNDING OF MAINE PUBLIC BROADCASTING

Posted: May 16, 2011 | Appropriations and Financial Affairs, Senator Hobbins

AUGUSTA—Senate Democratic Leader Barry Hobbins of Saco released the following statement in response to Governor Paul LePage’s latest change package where he proposes 100% elimination of Maine Public Broadcasting Network (MPBN) funding beginning on July 1, 2011.

“I am extremely disappointed that the Governor would propose cutting the funding of a Maine treasure. MPBN is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Maine needs to support such an important and valuable resource.”

“As I understand it, the Governor proposed the elimination of a provision in state statute that requires funding sufficient to ensure delivery of broadcast sources throughout the state. I intend to express my concerns directly to the Governor and will also testify in front of the Appropriations Committee on Monday to urge support for the continued and ongoing support of MPBN.”

“This is not in the best interest of Maine residents. MPBN serves as a connector—not just a social, cultural, or geographic connection but also as Maine’s lead emergency broadcasting system. Whether it’s through radio or television programming, every corner of this state is impacted by MPBN. Because it connects the north with the south and the east with the west, we learn about the goings on throughout our state, New England, and the world.”

“Every time I travel outside of Maine and tune in to another NPR affiliate, I’m reminded how fortunate Maine people are to have such high quality programming. The news reporting is award-winning. And, everyone can find a program that suits their taste. Whether it’s Click and Clack on the radio or a Ken Burns documentary on television, the lives of Mainers are enhanced by the service MPBN provides.”

“We have received more calls and emails about this issue and so I trust that the Governor will reconsider this proposal and also see that the value of MPBN overrides politics”

The state’s appropriate to MPBN represents 19% of its annual operating budget for fiscal year 2012 and 2013.