Bill > H3259

This bill establishes a tax credit for Massachusetts residents who subscribe to local community newspapers, designed to support local journalism. The bill defines a "local community newspaper" as a print or digital publication that primarily offers original, locally-sourced news content, serves a specific regional or local community, and employs at least one local news journalist residing in that community. Taxpayers can receive a $250 tax credit for paid subscriptions to one or more qualifying local community newspapers, with the important condition that the newspaper's primary residence must be within Massachusetts. The bill specifically excludes statewide or national newspaper subscriptions from eligibility. Once a taxpayer claims this credit for a taxable year and maintains their subscription, they will be eligible to claim the same credit in subsequent years. This legislation aims to provide financial incentives for residents to support local journalism and help sustain community-focused news organizations.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3259