Bill > A03955

This bill establishes the Lift Our Communities Advertise Locally (LOCAL) program, which provides a tax credit to support local media businesses and eligible businesses. The program offers an 80% tax credit (up to $5,000) for advertising expenses with local newspapers and broadcast media businesses that primarily cover local news in New York state. Eligible businesses include minority-owned, women-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, and small businesses with 10 or fewer employees. The program sets aside $6 million in tax credits for minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses and $4 million for small businesses, with a total annual cap of $10 million. To qualify, local media outlets must employ at least one full-time local journalist, broadcast or publish local news at least weekly, carry media liability insurance, and meet specific revenue and coverage area requirements. Businesses must apply through the department of economic development, which will review applications and issue tax credit certificates. The program will be in effect from January 1, 2026, to January 1, 2030, and aims to support local media and small businesses by providing financial incentives for advertising with local news outlets.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3955