Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting
January 24, 1995
Ancillary Income Policy
Unanimously
WHEREAS,
CPB historically claimed a share of ancillary revenues generated by programs in which CPB invested, and ceased this practice only after considerable criticism from Congress and producers, and in recognition of the fiscal strains on the public broadcasting producing community; and
WHEREAS,
Increasing demands on the Corporation's programming funds, and the likelihood of diminished resources for national programming over time, require that the Corporation maximize its return on program investments.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT:
The ancillary income policy adopted by this Board on September 15, 1992, is hereby superseded and the Board directs Management:
to negotiate agreements that claim for CPB an appropriate share of ancillary income; this will include ancillary income related to programs supported by PBS and the Independent Television Service with CPB funds; and this policy will apply to all programs with gross revenues in excess of $25,000, including revenues from sales of program-related products such as toys and other merchandise, to the extent that such rights are available;
notwithstanding the foregoing, Programming staff should continue to fund programs consistent with CPB's educational and public service mission; and
to report to the Board twice a year on the implementation of this policy, including significant agreements into which CPB has entered and resulting revenues and other rights received by CPB.