The Alabama Broadcasters Association emailed members this week to let them know it has reduced membership dues by 30% for 2021.
It also urged stations to send their savings to help the National Association of Broadcasters.
“The NAB is in an incredibly difficult financial situation,” the ABA wrote. “Because of the pandemic, they were unable to conduct any major conference events this year. The income from those meetings represents the vast majority of their income.
“This is important because winning in the halls of federal power is costly. Our opponents are powerful and well-funded. NAB needs resources to remain an effective advocate on Capitol Hill.
“If you are in a position to send the money you are saving on your ABA dues this year to the NAB, we encourage you to do so.” The message included an address to send donation checks.
At the NAB, Senior VP of Communications Ann Marie Cumming told Radio World that the ABA effort was not prompted by a coordinated effort from the NAB, and she noted that the organization recently took steps of its own to respond to this year’s challenges.
“The NAB Board unanimously approved a one-time assessment, which has positioned NAB with the necessary resources to effectively advocate in Washington and stand up for broadcasters at a time when they need it most,” she said.
“We greatly appreciate the support of our membership and state associations, understanding the hardships many stations are enduring due to the pandemic.”
