Congresswoman Tenney introduces legislation to support small, local news organizations

Press Release

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) on Friday introduced the Community News and Small Business Support Act alongside Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA). This bill utilizes tax credits to address the decline of local news organizations and support small businesses.

Under the bill, small businesses that advertise in local news organizations will be eligible for a tax credit, enhancing their own business objectives while supporting hometown news organizations. In addition, this bill aims to bolster hometown news organizations by providing a tax credit to allow for the hiring and employment of local reporters.

“As the former owner and publisher of the Mid-York Weekly, a local weekly newspaper, I understand how essential it is to support local news organizations and provide our communities with locally sourced news,” Tenney said. “The Community News and Small Business Support Act ensures that local news organizations can continue to deliver vital news stories that matter most to our communities while allowing for our small businesses to grow and our communities to stay informed. I am thrilled to introduce this bill alongside Congresswoman DelBene, and will continue to advocate for local news organizations and small businesses."

DelBene said, “In today’s digital world, access to trustworthy and reliable news is more important than ever. Local journalists and newspapers play a critical role in increasing involvement in civic institutions, identifying government corruption, and decreasing polarization. Yet, this industry is struggling more than ever to keep the lights on. The legislation we are introducing today would provide much-needed support for newspapers so local journalists can continue their invaluable work."

Read the full text of the bill here.