The Maryland General Assembly overwhelmingly voted in support of SB459, a measure to require units of the Maryland state government to allocate at least 50 percent of their advertising spending directly to Maryland news organizations. The definition of “news organizations” covers print, digital and broadcast outlets serving the state.
NMA is actively advocating with Maryland Governor Wes Moore in support of enactment of the measure. NMA will continue consistent engagement with other state legislatures on this and other journalism compensation initiatives.
“Maryland lawmakers, led by Senator Rosapepe and Delegate Foley, are showing the way for other states to provide support for local journalism and the communities served by our publishers,” said Danielle Coffey, News/Media Alliance President & CEO. “SB 459 will have the State support local news organizations and the vital role they play in Maryland, without adding an additional penny to the state budget. Maryland’s common-sense model supports these local businesses and the critical function they perform in educating, informing and engaging its citizens.”
