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New ad campaign focuses on First Amendment rights
Guest Column:
A path foward from a temporary problem
Arkansas Press Association
Publisher Weekly
By Al Cross
Vol. 15 | No. 30 | Thursday, July 23, 2020 | Serving Press and State Since 1873
Congress considering bill to support local newspapers As the coronavirus epidemic enters its fifth month, the newspaper industry continues to struggle due to the economic fallout from the government-mandated shutdown of some businesses. As a result, two members of Congress have drafted a measure that would provide needed economic relief to local newspapers. Reps. Ann Kirkpatrick, D-Arizona, and Dan Newhouse, R-Washington, introduced the Local Journalism Sustainability Act (HR7640) on July 16. The bill establishes three distinct tax credits – for newspaper subscribers, local advertisers and publishers. Those credits would offset some of the economic damage brought about by loss of advertising revenue during the pandemic. According to Poynter, more than 50 local newspapers have closed since the health emergency in the United States began in mid-March. In Arkansas, several newspapers have reduced publication days, laid off employees or closed their offices because of the economic downturn. “Arkansas newspapers have weathered this storm through some tough decisionmaking as well as creativity and innovation for growing revenue,” said Ashley Wimberley, executive director of the Arkansas Press Association. “However, like businesses everywhere else, our newspapers could use some
help to continue their mission to keep their communities informed and hold our officials accountable. The APA fully supports the Local Journalism Sustainability Act, and we encourage our members and supporters of good journalism to call on our members of Congress to support the bill.” Spokesmen for members of the Arkansas congressional delegation would not commit to supporting the bill, with several stating that the representatives would not take a position unless it cleared the House Ways and Means Committee first. The state’s two senators, Sens.
John Boozman and Tom Cotton, both Republicans, are awaiting action in the House. “At a time when we need local information more than ever, the pandemic is intensifying the challenges to community news coverage,” Boozman said in a statement. “While this legislation has not been introduced in the Senate, I have been a supporter of local journalism and have advocated for federal assistance so we can ensure our communities remain well informed. I am committed to working with my colleagues on solutions to help maintain this critical service.” Continued on Page 3