Summary of SRES 152 - Preserving and Protecting Local News Month

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SRES 152

Title: A resolution designating April 2025 as "Preserving and Protecting Local News Month"

Status: Introduced in Senate

Introduced Date: April 01, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SRES 152 is to officially designate April 2025 as "Preserving and Protecting Local News Month." This resolution aims to highlight the critical role that local news plays in American democracy and community life. By recognizing this month, the resolution seeks to affirm the importance of local journalism as a public good and its contributions to fostering informed and engaged communities.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes the following key provisions:

1. Designation of Local News Month:
   
   April 2025 is designated as "Preserving and Protecting Local News Month."

2. Affirmation of Local News Function:
   
   The resolution affirms that local news serves an essential function in the democracy of the United States.

3. Recognition of Local News as a Public Good:
   
   It recognizes local news as a vital public good that contributes to the well-being of society.

4. Acknowledgment of Contributions:
   
   The resolution acknowledges the valuable contributions of local journalism towards maintaining healthy and vibrant communities.

Affected Parties

The resolution primarily affects:

• Local News Organizations: Local newspapers, radio stations, and online news platforms that provide community-focused journalism.
• Journalists and Media Professionals: Individuals working in local news who contribute to reporting and informing the public.
• Communities: Residents who rely on local news for information about events, issues, and developments in their areas.

Legislative Actions

• April 01, 2025: The resolution was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by a bipartisan group of senators, including:

• Primary Sponsor: Brian Schatz
• Cosponsors:
  • Mark R. Warner
  • Michael Bennet
  • Amy Klobuchar
  • Angus S. King
  • Mark Kelly
  • Maria Cantwell
  • Richard Blumenthal
  • Ron Wyden
  • Richard J. Durbin
  • Peter Welch
  • Adam B. Schiff
  • Tina Smith
  • Alex Padilla

Conclusion

SRES 152 serves as a formal recognition of the importance of local news in the United States. By designating April 2025 as "Preserving and Protecting Local News Month," the resolution aims to promote awareness of the challenges faced by local journalism and encourage support for its continued existence and relevance in society.