Chapter 8 - Media Agencies

View the PDF of Chapter 8.

Redefine USAGM's mission to focus more on presenting a positive view of America and American policy
Eliminate the "firewall" regulation that protects editorial independence of USAGM networks
Consolidate USAGM under direct supervision of the State Department or National Security Council
Implement stricter oversight and control of USAGM content by government agencies
Remove staff deemed to have anti-American viewpoints
Reduce USAGM's budget from over $800 million to less than $700 million per year
Consolidate and reduce language services deemed "redundant"
Eliminate the Open Technology Fund and reinstate the Office of Internet Freedom
Implement stricter visa regulations for foreign journalists working at USAGM, replacing J-1 visas with I visas
Emphasize shortwave radio transmission over web-based technologies
Implement stricter vetting processes for USAGM staff
Transfer personnel security programs and suitability determinations to the Department of Defense and Office of Personnel Management
Implement stronger measures to protect USAGM journalists in high-risk situations
Completely defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB)
Remove NPR and PBS's noncommercial educational (NCE) status
Revoke reserved spectrum privileges for NPR and PBS stations
Exclude NPR and PBS stations from FCC licensing fee exemptions
Create a specific office in the White House or National Security Council to liaise with USAGM
Increase accountability of USAGM to the State Department's Assistant Secretary for Global Public Affairs and Undersecretary for Diplomacy and Public Affairs
Overhaul the agency with review from Congress to "modernize, streamline, and reduce waste"