Vermont News Outlets Advocate for Local Support
State lawmakers in Vermont recently introduced House Bill H.244, aimed at increasing the state government’s advertising expenditures with local news organizations. The bill, titled “An act relating to State contracting standards for advertising,” seeks to direct more state advertising funds to local print, digital, radio, and television outlets, as opposed to large tech corporations like Google and Facebook.
During a testimony before the House Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs, Paul Heintz, formerly the editor-in-chief of VTDigger and now with the University of Vermont Community News Service, emphasized the importance of supporting local news organizations. He represented a coalition of Vermont news outlets, including The Bridge, and highlighted the significance of investing in local communities.
The advertisements in question cover a range of topics, from the lottery and unclaimed property to sports betting and public health advisories on issues like extreme weather conditions, COVID-19, and smoking. Heintz expressed concerns about the state potentially funneling millions of dollars to out-of-state tech giants for advertising purposes, rather than supporting local news outlets in towns like Milton, Manchester, and Randolph.
Heintz described H.244 as a modest yet impactful solution tailored to Vermont’s scale, emphasizing that it would not drastically alter the state’s advertising practices. The bill, co-sponsored by Reps. Chea Waters Evans and Barbara Rachelson, both Democrats from Chittenden, has been praised as a fiscally responsible initiative that benefits local businesses and communities.
Challenges Faced by Local News Outlets
Local news outlets play a vital role in informing and engaging communities, particularly in times of crisis. Heintz underscored the indispensable nature of local news organizations in delivering essential information to Vermont residents. From radio stations that accompany listeners on their daily commute to newspapers that arrive in mailboxes, these outlets serve as lifelines for many individuals.
However, the journalism industry has been grappling with significant challenges, including declining revenue and job losses. Lori Henson, representing the nonpartisan nonprofit Rebuild Local News, highlighted the alarming trend of diminishing newsroom employees across the country. In Vermont alone, the loss of newspaper jobs has been staggering, with a 75% decline over the past 25 years and the closure of several newspapers in recent years.
The closure of news organizations not only impacts access to information but also has broader societal implications. Studies have shown that communities with diminished local news coverage experience lower voter turnout, increased government inefficiencies, and heightened political polarization. As more individuals turn to social media platforms for news, the need for robust local journalism becomes increasingly critical.
The Impact of State Ad Spending
State government ad spending in fiscal 2024 amounted to approximately $7.5 million, with a significant portion of these funds leaving the state. The proposed bill seeks to redirect a larger percentage of advertising dollars to in-state vendors, aiming for an 80% threshold. This shift not only supports local news outlets but also enhances transparency and accountability in how taxpayer dollars are allocated.
By prioritizing local news as a public good, Vermont would set a precedent for other states to follow suit. The innovative approach of H.244 recognizes the invaluable role of local journalism in fostering community engagement and civic participation. As the bill progresses, stakeholders and policymakers alike are optimistic about its potential to revitalize the local news ecosystem in Vermont.
In conclusion, the advocacy for increased support for local news outlets reflects a broader commitment to preserving the fabric of Vermont communities. By investing in homegrown journalism, the state can ensure that residents have access to accurate, timely information that enriches public discourse and strengthens civic engagement. As Vermont leads the way in championing local news as a public good, the impact of this initiative is poised to resonate far beyond state borders.
