Bill > SB459

This bill, known as the Local Newspapers for Maryland Communities Act of 2026, requires state government agencies to ensure that at least 50% of the total money they spend on print and digital advertising contracts is directly awarded to "local news organizations." A local news organization is defined as an entity that creates original content about matters of public interest, has at least one full-time employee dedicated to covering Maryland events who lives in or near the state, and meets specific publication or digital audience requirements for Maryland content. These organizations must also disclose their owners or board of directors and, if a non-profit, have local or state news coverage as part of their mission filed with the IRS. Importantly, entities that get over half their income from political organizations or certain types of non-profits (like social welfare or trade associations) are excluded. This requirement does not apply to advertising placed outside of Maryland for tourism promotion or employee recruitment, and the law takes effect on October 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0459?ys=2026RS