ANO Party lawmaker doubts shift to state funding for public media by 2027

A senior MP from thge ruling ANO Party says it is unlikely that funding for public service media will shift to the state budget by early 2027. Deputy speaker Patrik Nacher suggested legislative delays could prevent the change from taking effect on time. The current licence fee system remains the main source of income for Czech Television and Czech Radio. Under the proposed reform, both would receive significantly less funding. Lawmakers are also considering exemptions from licence fees for young people, seniors and smaller companies, which would further reduce revenues. Media leaders warn the changes could lead to staff cuts and reduced programming, while critics fear increased political influence over public broadcasting.