Maryland SB459 requires state agencies to allocate 50% of their advertising budget to local news organizations.

Maryland SB459, known as the Local News for Maryland Communities Act of 2026, mandates that state agencies allocate 50% of their total dollar value of procurement contracts for print and digital advertising to local news organizations. This act defines local news organizations as entities that employ full-time professionals dedicated to covering events in Maryland, either residing in Maryland or within miles of the state. The act excludes procurement contracts for advertising promoting tourism outside Maryland or for employee recruitment.

Maryland SB459 requires state agencies to allocate 50% of their advertising budget to local news organizations.

Maryland SB459, known as the Local News for Maryland Communities Act of 2026, mandates that state agencies allocate 50% of their total dollar value of procurement contracts for print and digital advertising to local news organizations. This act defines local news organizations as entities that employ full-time professionals dedicated to covering events in Maryland, either residing in Maryland or within miles of the state. The act excludes procurement contracts for advertising promoting tourism outside Maryland or for employee recruitment.