Local news informs citizens about issues that directly affect them and provides a forum for civic discussion and participation. It can also influence the public perception of important community problems such as crime rates and economic development by curating stories that prioritize specific issues and providing context through interviews or expert opinions.
But in recent years, as revenue has declined and audiences have shifted to digital platforms, the local news industry has faced major financial challenges. As a result, thousands of local newspapers have shuttered in the last two decades and many more are operating with staffs that are half the size they once were.
The loss of local news is a significant problem. Americans in most parts of the country are losing access to essential local information and a trusted source of community connection. A readily available supply of local news helps people feel attached to their communities and more likely to engage in civic activity.
While local news has faced serious challenges, there are signs of hope. A range of entrepreneurs – including journalists at television stations and founders of digital sites – are experimenting with new business models to fill the void left by shrinking legacy newsrooms.
But the health of local news depends on more than just innovation. To ensure that residents have a strong and sustainable local news ecosystem, we must take a holistic approach to policy. That’s why our coalition, Rebuild Local News, is developing and advocating for effective policies such as antitrust reform to prevent newspaper consolidation, tax credits that encourage consumers to subscribe to local newspapers, changes in banking regulations to support small media organizations that serve low and middle income communities, and more.