What's Happening?
Governor Phil Scott of Vermont has signed Executive Order 06-26, which prioritizes local media for state advertising spending. This order, developed in collaboration with the Vermont Journalism Coalition and the Vermont Association of Broadcasters, aims
to ensure that state advertising dollars are spent on local media outlets whenever feasible. The order is part of a broader effort to support local journalism, which plays a crucial role in informing Vermonters about state programs, health and safety messages, and other public services. The executive order also mandates a review of state spending on paid media to better understand the current investment in local media.
Why It's Important?
This executive order is a critical measure to support local journalism, which has been facing financial challenges across the United States. By directing state advertising to local media, Vermont is helping to sustain these vital community resources, ensuring that residents have access to important information about their communities. The initiative underscores the importance of local media in maintaining informed and engaged communities, particularly in rural areas where access to information can be limited. This move could inspire similar actions in other states, highlighting the role of government in supporting local journalism.
What's Next?
The State’s Communications and Marketing Office will be responsible for implementing the executive order, which includes assessing state spending on paid media. This assessment will provide insights into the current investment in local media and the impact of the executive order. The success of this initiative could lead to further measures to support local journalism in Vermont and potentially influence other states to adopt similar strategies.
