Thursday, February 19, 2026

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey urges delay on PBS decision by public TV board

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey is taking a stand to protect the future of Alabama Public Television (APT). In a recent statement, she urged the board that oversees APT to delay their decision to sever ties with PBS. This move comes after the board announced their plans to end their partnership with PBS, a decision that has sparked concern and backlash from the community.

In her statement, Gov. Ivey expressed her support for APT and the important role it plays in providing educational and informative programming to the people of Alabama. She emphasized the impact that APT has on the state’s children, stating that “APT is a vital resource for our children’s education and development.” The governor also highlighted the fact that APT is the only statewide television network in Alabama, making it a crucial source of information for many communities.

The decision to sever ties with PBS has been met with criticism from many Alabamians, who fear that it will result in a loss of quality programming and educational content. PBS has been a trusted source of educational programming for decades, and its partnership with APT has allowed the network to reach a wider audience in Alabama. By severing ties with PBS, APT would be cutting off access to popular shows such as Sesame Street, Masterpiece, and NOVA, which have been a staple in many households.

Gov. Ivey’s call for a delay in the decision is a step in the right direction. It shows that she is listening to the concerns of the community and is willing to take action to protect the interests of the people of Alabama. The governor also stated that she has asked her staff to work with APT and PBS to find a solution that benefits both parties. This collaborative approach is a testament to Gov. Ivey’s commitment to finding a resolution that will benefit all stakeholders involved.

Moreover, Gov. Ivey’s statement has been met with support from various organizations and individuals. The Alabama Education Association, the Alabama Association of School Boards, and the Alabama School Superintendents Association have all expressed their support for APT and their partnership with PBS. Many parents and educators have also taken to social media to voice their concerns and show their support for APT and PBS.

The decision to sever ties with PBS was made in an effort to cut costs and reduce the network’s reliance on government funding. However, Gov. Ivey has pointed out that APT receives only a small portion of its funding from the state, and the benefits of their partnership with PBS far outweigh the costs. APT’s programming not only educates and informs but also promotes Alabama’s culture and heritage. It is a valuable asset to the state and should be protected.

In conclusion, Gov. Ivey’s call for a delay in the decision to sever ties with PBS is a positive step towards finding a solution that benefits everyone. APT plays a crucial role in the education and development of Alabama’s children, and its partnership with PBS has been instrumental in providing quality programming to the state. It is essential that we work together to find a solution that preserves APT’s partnership with PBS and ensures the continued success of the network. Let us all join hands and support Gov. Ivey’s efforts to protect the future of Alabama Public Television.

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