Senator Andrew Lang (R-Olivia) today presented legislation that provides an appropriation for the Association of Minnesota Public Education Radio Stations (AMPERS), which would aid in program production. Of the amount, $200,000 in the first year would go towards production and distribution of the Veterans’ Voices program, which will educate communities regarding Minnesota veterans’ contributions, knowledge, and experiences in an attempt to share the untold stories of veterans from diverse communities.

“I’ve been heavily involved with AMPERS throughout the last few years and have seen first-hand how important their programming is—they’re reaching so many communities and sharing many stories for listeners to engage with,” said Sen. Lang. “They have 18 different community radio stations throughout Minnesota, and they’re producing amazing programs that anyone can enjoy.”

AMPERS currently has 18 radio stations throughout Minnesota, with each station being programmed by and for a specific community. Programming is currently offered in 12 languages, and AMPERS currently provides 4 Native American stations. Throughout the pandemic, the Association was able to produce more than 27,000 hours of programming, including more than 2,000 segments and shows.

“This is a good bill for a good cause,” continued Sen. Lang. “Since 2009, this Association has won many awards for their important work in the communities. They’ve had great results that we can all enjoy, and further funding will allow them to produce the Veterans’ Voices program, which would be extremely beneficial to listeners. These stations put out content we can all listen to and learn from, and they absolutely deserve to have our continued support.”

SF-1936 was laid over in the Environment and Natural Resources Policy and Legacy Finance committee.