Statement from WNYC / New York Public Radio: Additional $4 Million for Public Radio in NYS Budget will Help Preserve Essential Local News Across the State

May 12, 2025 – Late last Thursday night, the New York State Senate passed a $254 billion state budget for 2025-2026 that included an additional $4 million for public radio stations. This funding is over and above the $14 million the state gives to public broadcasting, $13 million of which goes to TV stations. In other words, this is a 400% increase in funding for radio and for the local news, cultural and music programming, and community service they provide across the state.

This additional allocation was proposed by State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal amidst attempts in Washington to cut federal funding for public broadcasting through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

LaFontaine E. Oliver, the President and CEO of New York Public Radio (home of New York State’s largest public radio group including WNYC, Gothamist, WQXR, and WNYC Studios) said:

“We’re deeply grateful to State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal for his vision and leadership in proposing this additional funding and to Governor Kathy Hochul, State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Speaker Carl Heastie, and the entire New York State Legislature for their support.

“While Washington attempts to cut federal funding for public broadcasting – which has enjoyed bipartisan support for over 50 years and supports a service that millions of Americans in every Congressional district rely on every day – our State leaders stepped up to help public radio stations in New York State continue to provide communities access to trusted local news, cultural and educational programming, and emergency services. From large cities to the suburbs, from small towns to rural areas – this is a win for keeping our state informed and connected.”