SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — State Senator Steve Stadelman’s legislation aims to strengthen local journalism and provide financial support to aspiring reporters still in college on Friday.
"Local journalism is vital for our communities, providing necessary information and holding those in power accountable," said Stadelman (D-Rockford). "This bill ensures that local news organizations remain transparent during critical transitions and supports the next generation of journalists."
The bill would create the Journalism Student Scholarship Program to support students pursuing careers in Illinois journalism.
The measure would also require all local news organizations to notify the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and employees 120 days before a sale occurs. This requirement hopes to keep publications local, instead of publications being sold to private equity firms.
"Requiring advance notice for sales protects employees and ensures communities are aware of changes that might affect their local news sources," said Stadelman.
Bill 3592 now heads to the governor for further consideration.
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May 25, 2024 at 08:39PM
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