Save Community TV in Minnesota
Preserving the Voice of Our Community
Community Television
Community television stations have been enriching communities through covering things like local news, sports, city council meetings and school events, through providing public, education and government programming for more than 40 years.
Where Our Funding Comes From
Traditionally, community stations are funded through fees that cable companies pay because they are using public spaces to lay their cables and wires. This is known as, "the public right of way". This setup was based on the idea that if a company uses public property to make money, they should give a small portion back to the community.
What's the problem?
​
Times have changed, where fewer and fewer people subscribe to cable TV, preferring instead to stream content online. Cable companies have adapted to these changes and new companies have come to market, shifting to providing internet services. These companies profit from internet services that use the same public space as cable companies have in the past.
A Solution
We believe funding for community television must be modernized and reflect the marketplace we see today.
​
-
Assess a fee on streaming services, collected by local governments, for use by public, education and government community television.
-
Create a state broadband franchise requirement for private use of the public right of way, in which local governments dedicate a portion of the associated fees for community television support (HF 974/SF 2045).
-
Establish a state allocation to support community media stations providing public, education and government programming (HF 1740/SF 2289).
How You Can Help
Your voice can make a difference. By reaching out to your state legislators, you can help them understand the importance of community TV and why this legislation is crucial for its survival.
Talk With Your Legislators
Talking to your legislators is vital in preserving community television.
Your Voice Matters
Remember, your legislators are there to represent you. Sharing your thoughts on issues that are important to you shows that you're engaged and care about your community. Your perspective is valuable and can make a real difference.​
Tips for Contacting Your Representative
Share Your Story
Talking about your personal experiences with community television, whether it's a show you love or how it's brought your community together, brings a human element to your message that's truly powerful.
Friendly Conversation
Think of this as a friendly conversation rather than a formal debate. It's about expressing your views in a comfortable and respectful way. There’s no pressure to be perfect – your sincerity is what counts most.
​
​
Introduction:
"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I'm a resident of [Your City/Town]. I'm calling to express my support for legislation that preserves community television."
State Your Position:
"I support legislation that modernizes the funding and operation of our community television stations. These stations are vital for our local news, education, and community engagement as well as promoting government transparency by covering local meetings."
Personalize Your Message:
"Community television has been important to me because [share a personal reason or a specific program that you value]. It plays a significant role in keeping our community informed and connected."
Ask for Support:
"I urge [Legislator's Name] to support the continued operation of community television stations. Our community relies on these stations for unbiased local news, educational content, and a platform for local voices."
Thank Them:
"Thank you for your time and for considering my views. Our community television is an invaluable resource, and your support means a lot to residents like me."
Closing:
"Could you please let me know [Legislator's Name]'s position on this matter?
Sample Phone Call to Your State Representative
Sample Email to Your State Representative
​
Subject: Support for Community Television and Upcoming Legislation
Dear [Representative's Name],
​
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a resident of [Your Town/City], in your district. I am writing to express my strong support for community television and to ask for your backing of current and future legislation aimed at securing funding for community television.
​
Community television plays a crucial role in our democracy, offering local news, educational content, a platform for diverse voices, and promotes transparency by covering government meetings that affect our communities. It fosters informed citizenship and contributes to the cultural and educational richness of our local area. However, the shift in media consumption from cable to internet streaming poses significant challenges to the funding model of these vital stations.
​
Despite the changing landscape, cable and telecommunication companies continue to use public infrastructure to provide their services. As the technology advances, I believe it is imperative that the contributions from these companies evolve to support community television in the digital age. Legislation that updates the funding model to include contributions from broadband providers will ensure that community television can continue to serve its critical role in our community.
​
I urge you to support any bills that seek to provide a sustainable future for community television. By doing so, you will be championing the voices of our local communities and ensuring that our access to local, educational, and diverse programming remains strong.
​
Thank you for considering my views on this important issue. I look forward to your support and to seeing the positive impact our combined efforts can have on the future of community television.
​
Warm regards,
​
[Your Name]