NAB Supports Local Journalism Sustainability Act of 2021

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 23, 2021

National Association of Broadcasters

U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) have introduced the Local Journalism Sustainability Act of 2021. This legislation, supported by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), would help financially support local news organizations through tax credits to incentivize hiring more journalists, subscriptions and advertising from local small businesses.

"The COVID-19 pandemic made it crystal clear that local reporters and newsrooms are essential to keeping the public informed and safe, but their importance spans well beyond health emergencies," said Senator Cantwell. "At its core, local news is about holding the powerful accountable. The strength of our democracy is based in truth and transparency, and local newsrooms are on the ground in our communities asking the critical questions, countering misinformation, and telling our stories. We have to protect these vital parts of our communities, because once they're gone, they're gone."

"Local newspapers, radio stations and TV stations are pillars of our community, bringing Arizonans trusted local news, information about community events and the latest on public health updates in their area," said Senator Kelly. "The pandemic made an already difficult financial situation for these news providers even harder, which is why I support the Local Journalism Sustainability Act. By providing tax credits for individuals to support local news outlets, they can continue to provide important coverage for Arizona readers, listeners and viewers."

"The decline of local news has had devastating effects on our communities. Local news has often been the only window into the city council or mayor's office. Without these outlets, these important institutions in our communities go uncovered. Further, the decline of local news has only fueled the growth of misinformation, as Americans lose their most trusted sources of information. As the son of a journalist, these developments trouble my greatly. Our bill would provide financial support to local news at this critical time for our democracy," said Senator Wyden.

NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith said in a statement, "NAB applauds the introduction of the Local Journalism Sustainability Act, which would support and enable hiring additional local journalists for broadcast newsrooms. At a time when misinformation and disinformation plague online platforms, broadcast radio and television continue to serve as reliable beacons of news that keep local communities informed and connected. We appreciate Sens. Cantwell, Wyden and Kelly's leadership in ensuring a vibrant future for local journalism and we urge congressional passage of this legislation."