An Act relative to supporting local journalism

HD 1360 creates three tax credits to support local journalism in Massachusetts. It provides individuals with a credit for 80% (first year) or 50% (subsequent years) of local newspaper subscription costs, capped at $250 annually. Newspaper publishers receive a payroll credit covering 50% (first four quarters) or 30% (later) of wages paid to local journalists (capped at $12,500 per journalist), while small businesses (under 50 employees) get a credit for 80% (first year) or 50% (later) of local media advertising expenses, capped at $5,000 or $2,500 respectively. All credits apply only for the first five years after the bill's enactment and require newspapers to meet specific local focus and staffing criteria.