IL SB3457

Establishes the Local Journalism Task Force to conduct a comprehensive study of communities underserved by local journalism in Illinois and review all aspects of local journalism including press coverage, business models, social media impact, and sustainability solutions.

Task Force comprises 10 members: one House member appointed by the Speaker, one Senate member appointed by the Senate President, one member appointed by the Governor, and representatives from Northwestern University's Medill School, University of Illinois Journalism Department, Southern Illinois University's School of Journalism, Illinois Press Association, Illinois Broadcasters Association, Illinois Legislative Correspondents Association, and Illinois Municipal League.

Members must be appointed within 30 days of the Act's effective date, and the Task Force shall meet a minimum of 5 times to review existing literature and data on journalism in Illinois.

Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity shall provide administrative and other support to the Task Force.

Task Force shall submit findings and legislative recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly no later than one year after the effective date, and the Act repeals 2 years after becoming effective.