Local Journalism Sustainability Act

The Local Journalism Sustainability Act creates three tax credits to support local news organizations. Individuals can claim a credit of up to $250 per year for local newspaper subscriptions (80% in first year, 50% after), with newspapers required to serve local communities and employ local journalists. Local newspaper publishers can receive a payroll tax credit for hiring local news journalists (50% for first four quarters, 30% after), and small businesses with fewer than 50 full-time employees can claim a credit for advertising in local media (up to $5,000 in first year, $2,500 thereafter). All credits expire after five years and apply only to qualifying local newspapers, radio stations, or television stations serving specific communities.