Vermont broadcasters describe emergency-alert role, workforce pipelines and community work

Wendy Mays, executive director of the Vermont Association of Broadcasters, told the Government Operations & Military Affairs Committee on Jan. 28 that Vermont’s over-the-air radio and television stations play a central role in emergency communications, local news and community support.

Mays said the state has “over 100” stations and described three core public benefits: local content and newsrooms, emergency communications via the Emergency Alert System, and support for nonprofit fundraising and community events. She also outlined workforce efforts, including paid internships and scholarships intended to recruit young people into broadcasting.

The presentation provided context for the committee’s early work on emergency-response legislation and signaled future briefings with the Department of Public Safety. Representative Rupert Brogan and other members asked about community radio and…