I want to take this opportunity to reaffirm my commitment to supporting the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB).  As a long-time listener of the programming offered by Iowa Public Radio and Iowa Public Broadcasting, I do not support the elimination of CPB's public financing.  Since 1968, the CPB has supported investments in locally owned and operated public television and radio stations that reach nearly 98 percent of Americans and provide them with high quality educational resources for children, relevant local information, and access to cultural and artistic events from across the country
 
This week, the House Majority tried once again to eliminate public funding for National Public Radio (NPR) by introducing H.R. 1076.  I voted against defunding NPR and the CPB when the House Majority passed the Fiscal Year 2011 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act (H.R. 1) on February 19, 2011.  I also opposed this second attempt to defund NPR.  Unfortunately, the Majority passed H.R. 1076 on Thursday, March 17th.  This bill has now been referred to the Senate for further consideration.  I have heard from thousands of Iowans like you who strongly support the CPB and NPR, and I will continue to oppose efforts to defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.  While in recent days there have been some concerning reports in the news, we should never forget how important the Corporation for Public Broadcasting's mission is to our children and communities, particularly in rural areas and we shouldn't throw Big Bird out with the bathwater. 
 
I am committed to continuing to promote economic recovery and to getting our fiscal house in order. Please be assured I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to address our nation's pressing challenges and to promote an economy that works for Iowa families.  Should you have any questions or comments that you would like to raise on this issue or any issue of importance to you, please do not hesitate to contact my office by phone at (202) 225-6576 or through my website at www.loebsack.house.gov.

Sincerely,