The Arkansas TV Foundation has created a separate donor fund aimed at supporting the future of PBS in Arkansas following a recent AETN Commission meeting.
The move comes in response to the commission’s March 12 meeting, where former first ladies Gay White and Barbara Pryor, PBS CEO Paula Kerger and more than 100 Arkansans urged officials to reconsider a vote to disaffiliate Arkansas PBS from the national network.
After hours of public comment, the commission voted to delay its decision, allowing additional time to address a funding gap.
Gay White said the delay provides an opportunity for supporters to raise funds to keep PBS programming in the state and thanked the Arkansas TV Foundation for establishing the new fund.
The fund, known as the “PBS Dues Fund,” will be used specifically to pay future PBS dues for Arkansas PBS. Donations are tax deductible, and any unused funds will be returned to donors upon request if the state ultimately severs ties with PBS.
Barbara Pryor said the response from Arkansans has been encouraging and expressed hope that state leaders and the commission will work together to find a solution.
The AETN Commission is scheduled to meet again June 4. The Arkansas General Assembly is also expected to convene prior to that meeting for the 2026 fiscal session.
Officials encourage Arkansans to follow updates through the Friends of Arkansas PBS website and social media. Donations can be made through the Arkansas TV Foundation.
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