At least 21 states and territories have proposed legislation to financially support local news, and organizations like Rebuild Local News are working to create a framework for public policy that supports local journalism. The decline of local news has far-reaching consequences, and effective public policy is critical to ensuring that communities have access to reliable local news sources.
The proposed legislation in various states and territories is a significant step towards addressing the challenges facing local news. Six states have already passed laws providing financial support for local news, and several others have bills in progress. These laws provide funding for initiatives such as investigative reporting, community outreach, and digital transformation. By providing financial support, these laws can help local news outlets to invest in their operations and improve their ability to serve their communities.
The economic context of local news is a critical factor in the development of public policy. The local news industry has lost over 50,000 jobs since 2008, and many outlets are struggling to stay afloat. The proposed legislation aims to address this issue by providing funding for local news outlets and supporting initiatives that promote innovation and sustainability. Some key metrics to consider include:
* $1.3 billion: the estimated annual revenue loss for local news outlets due to declining advertising revenue
* 70%: the percentage of local news outlets that have reduced their staff in the past five years
* 40%: the percentage of local news outlets that have increased their online presence in the past two years
The decline of local news has far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the journalism industry. Communities without access to reliable local news sources are more vulnerable to misinformation and disinformation, which can have serious consequences for democracy and civic engagement. As Matt Pearce notes:
> "Local news is the backbone of our democracy, and it's essential that we find a way to support it. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future for local news and ensure that communities have access to the information they need to thrive."
As the push for public policy to support local news continues to gain momentum, it's likely that we'll see more states and territories proposing legislation to financially back local journalism. Rebuild Local News and other organizations will play a critical role in shaping this legislation and ensuring that it meets the needs of local news outlets. By providing resources, facilitating dialogue, and promoting innovation, these organizations can help to create a more supportive environment for local news to thrive.
The push for public policy to support local news is a critical development in the efforts to save local journalism. By working together, lawmakers, journalists, and organizations like Rebuild Local News can create a more sustainable future for local news and ensure that communities have access to the information they need to thrive. As the landscape of local news continues to evolve, it's essential that we prioritize the development of effective public policy that supports this critical industry.