Bismarck, ND – In a significant budget decision, the North Dakota House of Representatives voted on Monday to eliminate state funding for Prairie Public Broadcasting, a move that supporters say aligns with broader government cost-cutting efforts.
The House Appropriations Committee had originally recommended continuing the $1.2 million biennial funding for Prairie Public. However, House Bill 1255, spearheaded by Rep. Jorin Johnson (R-Fargo), passed with a 48-41 vote, stripping the funding entirely. The bill, which prevents both state and federal funding allocations to Prairie Public, now heads to the state Senate for further debate.
Legislators Debate Efficiency vs. Public Impact
Rep. SuAnn Olson (R-Baldwin) linked the decision to a broader push for government efficiency, noting that the House had just passed a bill establishing North Dakota’s Department of Government Efficiency, a move she compared to federal cost-cutting initiatives under the Trump administration.
“This may be our first opportunity to start looking for efficiencies,” Olson stated. “Our hope would be that we’re not continually funding something that has the ability to fly on its own.”
Supporters of the funding cut pointed to strong financial backing for Prairie Public from memberships, charitable gambling, and corporate sponsors, arguing that the state should not be subsidizing a service that has other revenue streams.
However, Rep. Brandy Pyle (R-Casselton) opposed the bill, expressing concern over the Legislature’s move to eliminate federal funding for the broadcaster. She suggested that Prairie Public’s funding levels should be addressed within the state budget for the Office of Management and Budget rather than being entirely slashed.
Education and Local Programming at Risk
Opponents of the funding cut, including Prairie Public officials, warned that the move could significantly impact educational programming across North Dakota.
In written testimony, Linda Mork, Prairie Public’s Education Services Manager, emphasized the potential consequences:
“The loss of funding would not only affect educators but also students across the state, especially those in underserved communities.”
Meanwhile, John Harris, Prairie Public’s CEO and President, testified that the station would continue operations despite the funding loss but likely at the expense of local programming.
Changing Media Landscape Cited as a Factor
Rep. Johnson argued that the rise of digital media platforms has made Prairie Public just one of many available news sources, lessening the need for government support.
As the debate continues, all eyes now turn to the North Dakota Senate, which will ultimately decide whether Prairie Public’s funding will be restored or permanently cut.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for TRF News