IL SB0134

Establishes the Local Journalism Task Force to conduct a comprehensive, nonbinding study of communities underserved by local journalism in Illinois.

Task Force will review press coverage adequacy, resident-to-media outlet ratios, local news history, business models, social media impacts, and public policy solutions to sustain local press.

Task Force comprises 13 members including legislators from both chambers, a gubernatorial appointee, representatives from three Illinois journalism schools, and representatives from press, broadcast, and municipal associations.

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

Task Force must submit findings and legislative recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly within one year of the act's effective date, with the act repealing two years after enactment.