Public Broadcasting Station has updated its rules concerning the dismissal of board members.
The CPB, which finances networks like NPR and PBS from taxpayer funds, announced this week that “no board member can be removed by individuals or authorities, including the President of the United States, without a two-thirds approval vote from other directors.”
This mention of the U.S. president comes amid Trump’s critical remarks about public broadcasters. He, along with other conservatives, has claimed that these outlets display bias against them in their coverage and has urged Republican lawmakers to withdraw federal funding.
Last month, GOP legislators questioned NPR’s CEO Katherine Maher and PBS President Paula Kerger about editorial guidelines and fundraising practices.
Earlier this week, Maher reiterated NPR’s pledge to “serve the entire country” and to better engage with a more “politically diverse” audience.
The CPB Board oversees policy-making and financial priorities for the organization. Board members are appointed by the president and must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, with each term lasting six years.
