State legislatures are back in session. So is the work of advocacy.

Local newspapers carry influence that no outside organization can replicate. Local publishers are established in communities and have earned credibility with readers. Elected officials and their staffs rely on the local newspaper’s reporting to understand what is happening in their districts and how their constituents are impacted.  That standing matters when policy decisions are being shaped.”

Dean Ridings, CEO, America's Newspapers

With the new year underway, legislative sessions are opening across the country. That means a flurry of action, including new bills, proposals and renewed scrutiny of policies that directly affect local newspapers.

Already this year, hundreds of bills have been introduced at the state level addressing issues important to our industry. Some are constructive. Many pose real risk. Public notices are once again at the top of that list and deserve heightened attention.  There are also scores of other proposals involving taxes, advertising restrictions, AI and other measures that could impact local newspapers if they move forward unchecked.

As part of the America’s Newspapers State Advocacy Coalition, Tony Baranowski is tracking legislation daily and working closely with state press associations to identify issues early and coordinate responses. We are sharing intelligence, building resources and supporting states as bills move from introduction to action.

But effective advocacy does not happen only through national coordination. It happens locally — and that is where newspapers have their greatest leverage.

Local newspapers carry influence that no outside organization can replicate. Local publishers are established in communities and have earned credibility with readers. Elected officials and their staffs rely on the local newspaper’s reporting to understand what is happening in their districts and how their constituents are impacted.  That standing matters when policy decisions are being shaped.

If you are not already in regular contact with your local and state representatives, now is the time to make that a priority. Advocacy works best when relationships are already in place — before an issue becomes urgent.

A few practical reminders as legislative activity accelerates:

• Stay in regular contact: Consistent outreach — emails, phone calls, periodic meetings — keeps your newspaper visible and reinforces its role in the community.
• Build relationships beyond the elected official: Legislative staff often handle the details, track bills and advise decision-makers. Those relationships are critical.
• Be clear about your priorities: Explain how your newspaper serves readers, businesses and the community — and how specific policies either strengthen or undermine that work.
• Be specific about challenges: Local examples have the most impact. Whether it is the loss of public notices or limits on advertising, specific examples of what the local impact would be have more value.
• Understand their priorities and use your platform with purpose: Productive advocacy is a two-way conversation. When appropriate, sharing information about legislative priorities or community issues with readers can serve both officials and constituents.

Publishers should be aware that legislative sessions move quickly and preparing in advance is more effective than trying to react.  Local engagement that is consistent, informed and visible is one of the most effective tools newspapers have to protect their role in the communities they serve.

America’s Newspapers is here to support this work. We can help you identify the right contacts, provide talking points and connect you with resources that strengthen your advocacy efforts.  If you have questions, need information or have an issue that needs attention reach out to either me at dridings@newspapers.org or Tony Baronowski at tbaranowski@newspapers.org.