Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-3) and Rep. Thomas H. Kean (R-NJ-7) have signed on as co-sponsors of the Community News & Small Business Support Act (HR 4756). The act was introduced in the 118th Congress by Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-1), both members of the Ways and Means Committee.
The bipartisan legislation supports two institutions critical to sustaining hometown communities: local news organizations and small businesses. The act makes refundable tax credits available to local newspapers to reinvest in professional journalists who cover local news topics.
The act also makes non-refundable tax credits available to local businesses that advertise with local newspapers, providing an additional stimulus to the local economy.
Dean Ridings, CEO of America's Newspapers, thanked them for their support of local newspapers and businesses, calling the legislation a big win for local communities. "More local reporting means more access to the hometown news citizens rely on," he said. "And stronger newspapers mean stronger advertising vehicles for local businesses."
America’s Newspapers, along with other leading media organizations, has led the call for support of the local news industry through legislative efforts. Local news is non-partisan and fundamental to the fabric of their communities. The Community News & Small Business Support Act is intended to provide support to community newspapers. National media outlets are not eligible. Additionally, the act will bring back local jobs to community newsrooms, strengthen Main Street businesses and increase access to information that reflects hometown values.
Learn more about the Community News & Small Business Support Act
