NAB State Leadership Conference Draws 570 Broadcasters

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 2:39pm CT

National Association of Broadcasters

Broadcasters from across the country gathered in Washington, DC, this week for the National Association of Broadcasters' annual State Leadership Conference (SLC), an advocacy event focused on strengthening local radio and television stations' ability to serve their communities.

More than 570 attendees participated in policy briefings and presentations highlighting broadcasters' role in delivering trusted news, emergency information and local connection. On March 4, participants are scheduled to head to Capitol Hill to meet with members of Congress to discuss legislative priorities affecting local stations.

Curtis LeGeyt, President and CEO of NAB, addressed attendees, calling for modernization of what he described as outdated broadcast regulations that limit stations' ability to compete with global technology platforms. He emphasized broadcasters' role in public safety, civic engagement and local democracy.

Lawmakers shaping broadcast policy also addressed the conference. Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) spoke about the value of broadcast radio and his involvement in the bipartisan effort to pass the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) discussed concerns about a potential performance tax on local radio stations and the importance of broadcasters in their communities. Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC), chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, addressed broadcast ownership rules and efforts to ensure AM radio remains available in vehicles.

NAB's government relations team, led by Executive Vice President Shawn Donilon, provided updates on ownership reform, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act and other legislative issues. NAB Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Chief of Staff Michelle Lehman also outlined the association's America 250 campaign, encouraging stations to engage audiences in the nation's upcoming milestone anniversary.

The conference also recognized industry leadership and community service. NAB presented its Crystal Radio Awards, honoring stations for outstanding community service, and Ralph Oakley received the Chuck Sherman Television Leadership Award for his contributions to local television.

NAB Senior Vice President of State, International and Board Relations Sue Keenom recognized outgoing state association leaders for their service, including Jim Timm of the Nebraska Broadcasters Association and National Alliance of State Broadcasters Associations; Pat Roberts of the Florida Association of Broadcasters; Neal Gladner of the Arkansas Broadcasters Association; Vance Harrison of the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters; Cathy Hiebert of the Alaska Broadcasters Association; Chris Kline of the Arizona Media Association; and Keith Shipman of the Washington State Broadcasters Association.

As attendees prepare for meetings with lawmakers, this year's State Leadership Conference underscored broadcasters' focus on regulatory reform, preserving AM radio in vehicles and reinforcing the role of local stations as trusted sources of news and information.