Stations called on to recap 2016 public service
posted on 12.05.2016- Annual survey key to legislative efforts in Austin, DC
As the NAB’s Gordon Smith often says, other industries want what broadcasters have but no one wants to serve local communities to the extent that we do. This month is the time for Texas broadcasters to recap exactly what we do in terms of public service as TAB, for the 17th consecutive year, surveys stations to document the value and breadth of their community service in 2016.
With the cumulative total now well exceeding $5 billion, TAB’s annual Public Service Research Project helps demonstrate to policymakers in Austin and Washington, DC, the unique role that local broadcasters play in the ever expanding media marketplace.
The 2016 survey was emailed to station GMs Dec. 6 and can be completed electronically. The response deadline is Jan. 3.
Quantifying the value of our work in this arena is key to the success of TAB’s legislative efforts which include preserving the full federal tax deductibility of advertising costs, preventing a Performance Tax on Radio stations, protecting invaluable state tax policy involving broadcasters and safeguarding against erosion of Open Government laws.
The 2016 results will be included in the report to be presented to state lawmakers on Jan. 24 at TAB’s 2017 Legislative Day conference.
The conference features a deep-dive into major state policy issues and broadcast-specific concerns, concluding with the Lawmaker/Broadcaster Luncheon which is popular for what it doesn’t have – any speakers. Instead, lawmakers are seated with their local broadcasters so they can discuss issues important to their communities and briefly review TAB’s policy interests.
The program starts promptly at 10 a.m. and concludes by 2 p.m. at the Austin Sheraton at the Capitol, just blocks from the Capitol and TAB’s offices. A very small number of discounted hotel rooms are available for Monday night, Jan. 23.
Station owners, general managers and news directors should attend. TAB registration opened Nov. 1. Fees are $50, increasing to $75 on Dec. 19. There’s no charge for lawmakers to attend.
Broadcaster participation in this event is imperative to TAB’s success in the legislative session, whether advancing bills or fending off attacks. Lawmakers respond best to their constituents – especially when time is short, and the luncheon is a great venue to strengthen important relationships and showcase the breadth and depth of the Texas broadcast industry.
Questions? Email TAB's Oscar Rodriguez or call (512) 322-9944.
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