MD HB51

Local news organizations must provide written notice at least 120 days before any sale to affected employees, the Maryland Department of Labor, the county governing body, and any nonprofit in the state that buys local news organizations

Sales of local news organizations cannot be completed unless the required written notice is provided

"Local news organization" is defined as an entity that employs at least one full-time employee (30+ hours/week) who covers state or local news and resides within 50 miles of the coverage area, and discloses beneficial ownership or board of directors publicly

The law applies to print publications with a USPS periodical permit or 25%+ local news content, and digital outlets with at least 33% of their audience in Maryland and weekly local publication over the past 12 months

Organizations receiving 50%+ of gross receipts from political action committees or 501(c)(4) or (c)(6) organizations are exempt; effective date is October 1, 2025