Bowling Green Today

On May 8, 2024, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) introduced the Local News and Broadcast Media Preservation Act. The proposed legislation aims to provide relief to local broadcasters and newspapers from what Paul describes as outdated government restrictions that hinder their ability to thrive in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

“With the rise of social media and an ever-changing media landscape, it is imperative that our local newspapers and broadcasters are given the freedom to adapt. My Local News and Broadcast Media Preservation Act gets government out of the way and frees broadcast media from the chains that restrict their ability to better serve their customers,” said Dr. Paul.

The bill seeks to exempt print, broadcast, and digital news organizations from federal antitrust laws, enabling them to compete with and negotiate with national tech companies. It also proposes allowing local broadcast companies to merge without government interference, enhancing their ability to compete against large tech firms.

Additionally, the legislation aims to eliminate local and national caps on radio and television ownership, fostering an environment conducive to maximum flexibility for competition and negotiation.

Further details on Dr. Paul's Local News and Broadcast Media Preservation Act can be found [here](URL).