PBS and NPR publicize and acknowledge, on air, companies and groups that donate funding. These sources are called underwriters. The FCC rules allow “underwriting announcement” within limits:
“… a station can share a sponsor’s name, a general description of what they do, and where they’re located. [They should] stop short of a “call to action” … [intended to] entice audiences to buy a product or service.”
The FCC allows for five commissioners, although for most of the Biden administration there were only four, two Dems and two GOP representatives. Brendan Carr became Chair on Jan 20, 2025, although tie votes are likely until the fifth chair is filled.
FCC Chief investigates NPR & PBS: Do (unlawfully) they air commercials?