Bill > S0084

This bill requires the Vermont Commissioner of Buildings and General Services to allocate at least 80 percent of the state's annual advertising budget to local organizations for print, digital, radio, and television advertising services. The bill defines "local news organizations" and "local broadcast organizations" with specific criteria, such as being licensed to broadcast in Vermont, employing full-time local journalists, publishing regular content about the local or state community, and maintaining transparency about ownership. The legislation includes several detailed requirements for qualifying as a local organization, such as having a local journalist who works at least 30 hours per week, publishing regular content, and ensuring that no more than 50 percent of their gross receipts come from political action committees or certain tax-exempt organizations. The bill also mandates an annual report to the General Assembly detailing the state's advertising expenditures, including the amounts spent and where the funds were allocated. The new requirements will take effect on July 1, 2025, and aim to support local media organizations by directing a significant portion of state advertising spending toward them.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.84